While hunting with his grandson, veteran wildlife officer Steve Dunne discovers the remains of a man, the apparent victim of a mountain lion attack. With archery season underway and other hunters vulnerable to the man-eater, Steve is anxious to warn his Perry County, PA neighbors and hunt down the big cat. Steve’s supervisor, Gus Fleagel considers the evidence to be inconclusive and pressures Steve into delaying his warning. The game commission insists that mountain lions no longer roam the state, and hunting is too important to the local economy to cause a panic. Investigating law officer Ron Crogan agrees, fearing that frightened hunters may become careless. Steve’s son, a state senator also warns him to back off.

Having recently lost his wife, Steve’s loneliness manifests itself as a drinking problem and a declining self-esteem. Given his lack of confidence, Steve is conflicted about remaining silent. After DNA evidence disappears and more victims fall prey, Steve defies the authorities and goes public. Having forced the issue, the game commission hires a Native American mountain lion expert, Dr. Alex Lightfoot, to help Steve track the elusive creature. Together they unravel a conspiracy even more sinister than a rogue mountain lion.