I use to run a trap line in the upper peninsula of Michigan a long time ago. I had a line about 1 1/2 mile long for beaver, otter, muskrat, and mink. Then I had another about a mile long on for woodland animals. I was always fearful of coming up on a big cat. They say they are not there but I have a picture of bobcat prints in a place that I called the litter box and there was a print about 4” across. Never did see one and I’m glad I didn’t. I also had a wolf come up on me by accident. He was as shocked to see me as I was him. That thing was HUGE but wow was it a pretty looking animal. He was about 15’ away when he popped out of a trail. Funny thing is … I was not afraid of him. Now a pack of wolves would scare me. You going up against a cougar with a knife …. Well…you got to be one tough man!!!