Here, in just one video, there are several characteristics shown that really go a long way to identifying these snakes, contrasting them to other common water snakes.

Note:

1) Its body floats well above the water, less submerged than common watersnakes;
2) It isn't a very large snake . . . typically;
3) It has a blunt form, that is, a relatively thick body coming to a sudden blunt end (it tapers quickly) and a really skinny tail;
4) It isn't particularly aggressive. As a matter of fact, its curiosity here is likely owing to poor eyesight and the fact that the angler is moving by rather silently. The snake just doesn't feel threatened and it is likely responding to noise and vibration.

Yes, I'd still paddle on by, not stop to visit!

Good video!

Brad

Cottonmouth Primer

Then video that loads and plays right after that one is even better

That snake was hauling!

What a bunch of nancies

I believe that was a water snake not cotton mouth

Negative, that was a cotton mouth.

Oh look there is a nope rope in the water...

Only thing I know is Mr. Snake Guy didn't grow up where I did. Walking/running looking ahead and not watching where he's steppin...

That second video. Holy [censored]! That's a huge copper head. 12-gauge...