Was fishing a neighborhood pond today. Would head a gasp of air and see them. As evening set in they got more and more aggressive. At first they would run when I stood up or moved. Closer to dark they just kept coming. I left. Is there any way to make them stay away?

A 12 gauge works pretty good.. Or use moth balls, it quieter but not as much fun. Snakes hate moth balls, the smell keeps them from breathing.

Thanks I don't believe people would like a 12 gauge going off 30 yards from a playground.

I bet they would'nt mind if they knew there were water moccasins 30 yards from their playgrounds.

First of all, are you sure they were moccasins, cause most of the snakes people i.d. as them are actually non-venomous diamond back water snakes. During the spring and early summer when they are breeding they seem to lose any and all fear of people and will try and take a fish off your stringer with you standing there holding it. (at least that's been my observation.) Both types of snakes are attracted to splashing in the water probably thinking it to be a food source. They are naturally curious and will come check out a lantern or other light source every time. They are very active at dusk and stay so until the cool night air sets in. In my opinion the diamond back water snake is by far the more aggressive of the two snakes. Whereas most moccasins I've encountered wanted nothing to do with me and get far away from me quickly. I've never had any trouble chasing away snakes by simply tapping them on the nose with the tip of my rod......except....during the breeding season. But they aren't trying to hurt you, they are only interested in what ever it is that is setting off all the vibrations in the water. For food? Or maybe a possible mate...I dunno. Get yourself some good boots and buy a pair of snake gaiters at Cabelas or online and give yourself some peace of mind if they bother you.

A good ol rock hunked at em will do the trick

A pellet gun will work.

If there are water snakes in the pond you are fishing..Take you some fresh dead minnows with you next time you are there and see them swimming to you, or around you fishing..
When you see the snakes next to you..just throw them the fresh dead minnows..The snakes will eat them and leave you and your catch alone..They may even be waiting on you when you go fishing there again with their mouths open like baby birds.
We have done this and it does work..

I was fishing a bank into a spillway the other day and every cast a large snake would jump out, in the air, and try to bite the fish (bream) as I would reel them up. It was actually fun & amusing to see. Wish I had my gopro with me. lol...

A small 22 mag with rat shot will also work. It doesn't make much noise and is effective.

That's a good idea. Have to try that myself.

LOL....sure will work, but seeing as he's fishing a neighborhood pond...I dunno, I think I'd rather deal with the snakes than the popo.

Private pond, yep that'll do it.

When I night fish the rivers this time of year to through the summer. I always carry a broken tipped rod (so I don't care if it breaks) or a limp water hose and try to break their backs when they swim up to my lantern that's right next to the bank. Maybe im just mean, but I like to see snakes of ALL kinds twirl in the water with broken backs after I thwack 'em.

You do have to be quick though...

Well yes...you are mean.