Statue of Hanson buck. Photo credit: West Central Online

Written by Jenny Hagan West Central Online

Milo Hanson, the Saskatchewan farmer who harvested the world-record typical whitetail deer more than three decades ago, has died at the age of 81, prompting tributes from hunters and conservationists around the world.

Hanson, who had strong ties to the Biggar area, became a well-known figure in hunting circles after taking a massive buck on Nov. 23, 1993. The deer was later officially scored at 213 5/8 inches by the Boone and Crockett Club and remains the largest typical whitetail ever recorded.

According to accounts Hanson shared over the years, the buck had been spotted by local residents during the summer and fall of 1993. After a fresh snowfall blanketed the area, a group of hunters organized a push through a patch of willows where the deer had been seen. Hanson ultimately shot the animal after it broke cover.

News of the enormous rack spread quickly through the rural community and then across North America after the story appeared in hunting magazines in early 1994. Visitors travelled from across Canada and the United States to see the antlers, which Hanson kept at his farm. At times, he hid the rack out of concern it might be stolen as interest in the deer grew.

Following news of his death, outdoor organizations, hunters and fans shared memories online, describing Hanson as humble, generous with his time and proud of his Saskatchewan roots. Many credited him with inspiring generations of deer hunters and bringing global attention to whitetail hunting on the Prairies.

In the years that followed the record, Hanson and his wife attended outdoor shows and events, where he displayed a replica of the buck and spoke with hunters fascinated by the achievement. A statue commemorating the deer now stands near Biggar, drawing visitors who continue to mark the milestone.

The buck’s record has stood for more than 30 years, cementing Hanson’s place in whitetail hunting history.