Thread: 36 fow & 1/4 Mile Out; Didn't Expect This!

I agree- and when they are wet the colors and patterns seem so different than the dry examples pictured.

I can't figure it out at all. It swims on top like a pit viper and although the pattern isn't exactly a moccasin, it's not far off from some I found pics of today. Maybe a western ratsnake but otherwise the pattern really doesn't fit anything that I've seen. Maybe its the rare Copper headed rattlemouth cottontail?

They have got in my Ranger before lol EB

Originally Posted by Eufaula boy

They have got in my Ranger before lol EB

Back when I had my Ranger, the 6' black snake that lives in the barn, and keeps it rodent free, decided to see what that contraption was parked next to its home.
Unbeknownst to it, the contraption known as a boat started moving down the road, so he decided to take refuge in one of the compartments that is open to the hull.
Later that morning decided to get an anchor out, opened up and saw it curled up in the corner.
Scared the heck out of me! But, I didn't let the wife know as she is deathly afraid of snakes and would have abandoned ship.
Later that morning on the way in, saw his head peek out by my right knee where the wiring heads to the bow, but that's where he stayed.
When we got home, I went to the store and got a box of moth balls and scattered a few around. I'd read that repels snakes.
So, that's my snake in the boat story.

Believe it's that northern water snake. Have seen some with similar markings in Kaw this year but not quite as dark colored. They get a lot bigger than the normal water snake and they are not shy. Had them swim out to the boat and I would hit them on the head with my rod tip. Most water snakes would take off these would go under and come right back up. Seen 1 cottonmouth up here and that was over 40 years ago but as the old saying goes, when you see a cottonmouth you will know what it is.

I sent the photo over to ODWC and here is there answer;



Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) That is a black rat snake. They are excellent swimmers

Rat snake / water snake wouldn't matter if you stepped in the middle of him in the dark. Fella would have to change britches.

Dennis - When that critter peaks its head out of the live well DON'T BOTHER telling me what is behind me/ I will fill my britches AND abandon ship in the same instance.