I have recovered several that were able to get out of sight from me. I once recovered one 3 hours after the shot, but since then I've decided that it's best to pursue him immediately. The last time I had one run off wounded was about 15 years ago when I was still using a 12 gauge. I just made a bad shot and only broke a wing, but I came up on him about 200 yds away and was able to finish him.
I would sure go back and look. Check out stump holes, briar patches, and especially along the banks of a stream. If he is seriously wounded, he will try to hide. Sure hope you can find him!
I agree. It hasn't happened often but I have had pretty good luck with following them right after the shot. If they can still fly then I figure they'll most likely survive. If they can't, then you should be able to catch up and get close enough for a follow up shot.
But shooting them in the face on the first shot works best lol