That was a Natrix water snake; not poisonous although they can have a bad disposition. Glad you didn't kill it. I don't know who thinks a Texas Rat Snake is in the lake, but this isn't one.

Later

It's a diamond back water snake. Meaner than all get out. They do not like being denied what they want to do. They'll also bite underwater. There's a myth that snakes can't/won't bite under water but don't believe it, I know someone that was bitten on the toe (under water) after she shooed one of them away from trying to eat a catfish bigger than it was. They are not poisonous but can set up infection. Joe Pool is full of em. People often think they're diamond back rattlers. I guess they don't take time to notice the shape of the head and that they don't have rattles.

BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG ----RELOAD ---BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG ----RELOAD ---- BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG ----RELOAD ---- BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG!!!!

I agree with ScottABA!!!!

would have made a great new rod handle wrap

Have you lost your mind?

Those are all over the place in Central Texas...

Texas Diamond Back Water Snake.

http://www.texassnakes.net/DiamondBacked.htm


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diamondback_water_snake


I have seen them climb up onto a dock I was crappie fishing at...I know they can be aggressive when approached. I have had them come within a foot of me, while wade fishing, too...

Re. the WD-40, was the snake "squeaking"?

Only after he was sprayed in the face!

There are three things that scare me.

Snakes
Big Foot
Bar Tabs

Your braver than me.....