Tennessee, a landlocked state in the US, is well-known for its natural beauty, which is found in places like the Great Smoky Mountains, which are full of lakes.
Given how much tourists love these bodies of water, it is important to be aware of the risks they pose, such as snakes.
There are around a dozen local snake species known to exist in Tennessee’s numerous lakes, with five having the highest concentration.
Although it can be unsettling to see one during your fishing trip, camping vacation, or outing, very few of them are poisonous.
Like all snakes, they usually use aggression as a defense mechanism when they are encroached upon or harmed, even unintentionally.
Reelfoot Lake
A series of earthquakes in 1811–1812 caused the powerful Mississippi to temporarily flow in reverse, creating this 15,000-acre basin of water. As a result, the state park is now well-known for its excellent boating, fishing, and wildlife habitat.
This lake is home to numerous species of snakes, the most common of which is the broad-banded watersnake. This snake may grow up to 36 inches (91 cm) in length and is distinguished by its wide brown stripes.
Despite being an excellent swimmer, this snake rarely bites people seriously since it is not venomous. However, in trees close to the lake, cottonmouths have also been observed consuming their food.
Therefore, your best option is to camp outside of trees, away from marshy areas, and not right next to the water.
Norris Lake
The biggest reservoir on a Tennessee River tributary is Norris Lake. With more than 800 miles of coastline—much of it covered by forests—it spans 33,000 acres.
Three conditions are necessary for snakes to flourish: a suitable habitat, a plenty of food, and a comfortable temperature. Because it possesses all of these, Norris Lake is an excellent place for snakes of all kinds to live.
The most abundant species in the area is the common watersnake, which is distinguished by its remarkable swimming ability.
The typical male has brown coloring with dark crossbands and can grow to a length of 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm). Visitors shouldn’t be too concerned about these snakes because they are not deadly and are somewhat timid.
Dale Hollow Lake
With over 600 kilometers of shoreline, the lake spans 27,700 acres. As a consequence, it supports a wide variety of aquatic, insect, and animal life.
Although it is rare, encountering a snake here is possible. The most often recorded species are the timber rattlesnake and common watersnake.
The wood rattler should not be taken lightly, even though the watersnake is very innocuous.
It contains venom that is neurotoxic and can kill young infants.
These snakes, which can grow up to 60 inches (152 cm) in length and have black coloring, are also frightening to see.
Thankfully, rattlesnakes have a loud defense mechanism that makes it easier to avoid danger as long as you pay attention to it.
Chickamauga Lake
With 810 miles of coastline and a surface area of more than 36,000 acres, it’s easy to understand why Tennessee is known as a bass fishing paradise.
These reptiles, especially those that feed on small fish and amphibians, have great habitats thanks to the dense foliage, shallow coves, and underwater vegetation.
These regions are often home to the common watersnake, which is sometimes confused with the more poisonous cottonmouth. It is usually timid and non-venomous, but when threatened, it may become protective.
Another species that can be found around the lake are copperheads, which are poisonous and can turn hostile if they feel threatened.
On land, they are more likely to be found, particularly in places with rocky ground, fallen logs, and thick underbrush. They are competent swimmers, however they rarely get into the water.
Tims Ford Lake
Measuring just 10,700 acres, it is one of the Bill Dance Signature lakes and offers a variety of activities that can only fully appreciated by experiencing them, such as hiking, fishing, wildlife events, and rustic camping.
In and around Tim’s Ford Lake, there have been reports of garter snakes, timber rattlesnakes, black king snakes, ring-necked snakes, and smooth earth snakes.
Widely distributed, the common garter snake is distinguished by its characteristic yellow stripes that run down its greenish-brown body.
It typically reaches a length of two to three feet (60 to 90 cm).
The timber rattlesnake, another noteworthy species, has a distinctive dark, chevron-patterned body and can grow up to 60 inches (152 cm). If you come across it, proceed with caution as it is poisonous.
To Conclude
Be informed before you leave. If you want to go in the water but are scared of snakes, research the local breeds and their habitats first.
Snakes are predictable. Look for a different location if the area you wish to fish is not suitable for their feeding, sunbathing, or breeding.
Anglers, campers, hikers, and explorers can easily alter their plans rather than relying on native snakes to relocate, particularly if the area is ideal for their requirements.
