What to Do If You See a Snake in the Water While Kayaking

Kayaking through Tennessee’s scenic rivers, lakes, and creeks is one of the best ways to enjoy the Volunteer State’s natural beauty. From the peaceful bends of the Harpeth River to the wild stretches of the Tennessee and Hiwassee Rivers, there’s plenty to explore. But every so often, paddlers find themselves sharing the water with something that makes their heart skip a beat — a snake.

Before you panic, take a deep breath. Seeing a snake in or near the water doesn’t automatically mean danger. Most snakes you’ll encounter are harmless and prefer to avoid humans altogether. Knowing how to respond — and which species you might see — can make all the difference between a moment of alarm and a fascinating wildlife encounter.

🐍 What to Do If You See a Snake While Kayaking

1. Stay Calm and Still

The worst thing you can do is thrash around or try to hit the snake with your paddle. Sudden movements can make the snake feel threatened and defensive. Most snakes will swim away if left alone.

2. Give It Space

If the snake is in the water, paddle slowly in the opposite direction. Snakes are strong swimmers, but they rarely pursue boats or people — they’re usually just crossing the river or hunting small prey near the surface.

3. Don’t Try to Move It or Take a “Close-Up” Photo

It’s tempting to snap a picture, but leaning too close can put you at risk. Zoom in with your camera instead, or simply admire from afar.

4. Be Mindful at Entry and Exit Points

Snakes love basking on warm rocks, logs, or boat ramps. Check your surroundings before stepping out of your kayak, especially in sunny, quiet areas.

5. Know the Signs of a Venomous Snake

In Tennessee, only a few species are venomous — and even fewer are semi-aquatic. Familiarize yourself with their markings and behavior before you head out.

🐍 Common Snakes You Might See in Tennessee Waters

Tennessee is home to over 30 species of snakes, but only four are venomous. Here are some you’re most likely to encounter near or in the water:

1. Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon)

Habitat: Rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes

Appearance: Brown or reddish with darker bands; often mistaken for copperheads

Behavior: Nonvenomous but can be defensive if cornered. Often seen swimming or sunning on logs.

2. Midland Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon pleuralis)

Habitat: Common throughout Middle and East Tennessee

Appearance: Similar to the Northern Water Snake;

heavy-bodied with darker crossbands

Behavior: Active during the day and night; helps control fish and frog populations.

3. Plain-Bellied Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster)

Habitat: Found statewide, especially in larger lakes and

slow-moving rivers

Appearance: Dark on top with a solid yellow, orange, or red belly

Behavior: Strong swimmer; may flee to water if startled on land.

4. Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin) (Agkistrodon piscivorus)

Habitat: Mostly in West Tennessee near

swamps, sloughs, and cypress ponds

Appearance: Thick, dark body with a triangular head and white “cotton” mouth interior

Behavior: Venomous but not aggressive unless provoked; will often stand its ground and display its white mouth as a warning.

5. Queen Snake (Regina septemvittata)

Habitat: Clean, rocky streams and rivers in East and

Middle Tennessee

Appearance: Olive or brown with yellowish stripes along the body

Behavior: Feeds mostly on crayfish; completely harmless.

6. Banded Water Snake (Nerodia fasciata)

Habitat: More common in West Tennessee

Appearance: Red or brown bands along the body; sometimes mistaken for a cottonmouth

Behavior: Nonvenomous and shy; will dive underwater if approached.

🌊 Final Thoughts

Seeing a snake while kayaking in Tennessee can be a little unnerving, but remember: you’re in their habitat, and they usually want nothing to do with you. Most are beneficial to the ecosystem, helping control fish, frog, and rodent populations.

So next time you’re gliding through calm water and spot a slender shape moving across the surface, take a moment to appreciate one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures — from a respectful distance, of course.

Safety Tip: Always wear appropriate footwear when launching or landing your kayak, and never reach blindly into brush or under rocks. Knowledge, caution, and calmness go a long way toward keeping your paddling adventure safe and enjoyable.