The Most Snake Infested Lakes in Tennessee

Tennessee, a landlocked state in the United States, is famed for its outdoor scenery, prevalent through areas like the Great Smoky Mountains, which abound with lakes. As tourists adore these bodies of water, it is essential to know the dangers lurking in them, including snakes. In Tennessee, nearly a dozen local snake species have been documented around the state's many lakes, the greatest proliferation within five in particular. While seeing one on your outing, camping trip, or fishing time can be disconcerting, only a few are venomous. As is common with all snakes, they typically become aggressive as a mechanism when encroached on or attacked, even inadvertently.

Knowledge is power, and educating yourself about the area you wish to visit at any given lake is wise. Read about boater and outdoorsmen reports, contact local wildlife experts, and be vigilant. Snakes don’t want to have any more to do with you than you do with them. And be cautious because some of these snakes aren’t just in the water. Look down, look up, and stay clear of obvious areas where they nest and thrive. For some base knowledge, here are the most snake-infested lakes in Tennessee.

Reelfoot Lake

Many lakes are caused by geographic depressions, flooding of rivers, and manmade means, but occasionally, a lake is formed from an unprecedented geological act, the outcome of which looks something like Reelfoot Lake. This 15,000-acre water body came to be when a handful of earthquakes in 1811-1812 caused the mighty Mississippi to flow in reverse for a time. The result is now a state park known for terrific fishing, boating, and habitat for all wildlife.

Snakes are among the many species that call this lake home, and the most popular species is the broad-banded watersnake. This snake is known for its broad brown bands and can reach an average length of up to 36 inches (91 cm). While it is a great swimmer, this snake is not venomous, so a bite is rarely serious. That said, cottonmouths have also been seen devouring their prey in trees near the lake. Thus, camping beyond tree cover, not immediately by the water, and away from marshy areas, is your best choice.

Boaters must also be cautious as Reelfoot Lake resembles a flooded woodland area with trees plentiful above and below. For campers and swimmers, it is important to note that these conditions and the bordering wetlands are the perfect breeding grounds for many aquatic snake species. The ecosystem is ideal for the prey these snakes feast upon and offers options for nesting and rearing young without traditional threats.

Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, forested shores, and many islands. It is the product of the Flood Control Act of 1938, and the Army Corp of Engineers built a hydroelectric dam that still funnels power to the surrounding areas to this day. The lake encompasses 27,700 acres with more than 600 miles of shoreline. Because of this, it encourages a large contingent of diverse animal life, aquatic, and insect life. Predators find a home where food is readily available, so snakes are in heaven on this monument of ingenuity's wooded shores and waters.

Coming into contact with a snake here is possible but not common. The common watersnake and timber rattlesnake are the most heavily reported. While the watersnake is reasonably harmless, the timber rattler is not to be trifled with. It is host to a neurotoxic venom, which can cause fatal issues in small children. These snakes are also menacing sight, reaching lengths of up to 60 inches (152 cm) and sporting a dark coloration. Fortunately, rattlesnakes have a noisy defense mechanism, so as long as you listen to danger, it is easy to avoid.

Norris Lake

Norris Lake is the largest reservoir on a tributary of the Tennessee River. It covers 33,000 acres and has over 800 miles of coastline, much of which is forested. The Norris Dam created Norris Lake in 1936, and the lake is now the perfect spot for anyone wishing to catch a myriad of fish, including sunfish, bass, and sturgeon.

Snakes thrive in three circumstances: the right environment, a plentiful food source, and temperature. Norris Lake has all of these and, therefore, is a wonderful habitat for snakes across the spectrum. The common watersnake is the most popular species in the region, known for its prominent swimming abilities. The average male can reach a length of 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm) and feature a brown coloration with dark crossbands. These snakes are quite shy and not venomous, so they aren’t too much of a concern for visitors.

Chickamauga Lake

With a surface area of over 36,000 acres and 810 miles of shoreline, it's no wonder why Tennessee calls this a Bass fishing paradise. Created by the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1940, Chickamauga Lake is the result of the Chickamauga Dam and sits at 682 feet (208 m) above sea level. Its bass population, including smallmouth and largemouth, is truly impressive and attracts anglers in droves.

As with many dam-created lakes, Chickamauga's shoreline is a mix of marshy, rocky, and forested areas, which are ideal environments for various snake species. The thick vegetation, shallow coves, and underwater plant life provide excellent habitats for these reptiles, particularly those that prey on small fish and amphibians. The common watersnake, often mistaken for the more dangerous cottonmouth, is frequently seen in these areas. It's non-venomous and typically shy but can be defensive if threatened.

Copperheads, another species found around the lake, are venomous and can become aggressive if they feel endangered. They are more likely to be encountered on land, especially in areas with dense underbrush, fallen logs, and rocky terrain. While it's uncommon for them to venture into the water, they are capable swimmers. If you're fishing from the shore or a boat in a cove, it's wise to stay alert, particularly near areas where these snakes might be hunting or basking.

Tims Ford Lake

Another spectacular bass fishing lake and one of the most picturesque, Tims Ford Lake, is not very large but has plenty to offer. Only spanning 10,700 acres, it is one of the Bill Dance Signature lakes and is home to rustic camping, hiking, fishing, wildlife events, and so much more, all of which must be experienced to be appreciated.

Garter snakes, timber rattlesnakes, black king snakes, ring-necked snakes, and the smooth earth snake have been recorded in and around Tim’s Ford Lake. The common garter snake is widespread and can be identified by its distinctive yellow stripes running along a greenish-brown body, usually growing to about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in length. Another notable species, the timber rattlesnake, can reach up to 60 inches (152 cm) and has a characteristic dark, chevron-patterned body. It is venomous, so caution is advised if encountered.

Conclusion

Know before you go. If you are afraid of snakes but want to hit the water, check first into the local breeds and where they make their homes. Snakes are predictable. If the place you want to fish is the right habitat for their breeding, feeding, or basking, perhaps find another spot. It's easier for anglers, campers, hikers, and explorers to change their plans than to expect indigenous snakes to decide to move on, especially if the location is perfect for their needs.