Snake-Infested Lakes in Alabama Uncovered

Alabama is home to some of the country's most stunning lakes, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

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Whether you're soaking in their natural beauty, casting a line while fishing, gliding across the water on a boat, taking a refreshing swim, or indulging in thrilling water sports, these lakes have something for everyone to enjoy.

The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division oversees 23 Public Fishing Lakes (PFLs) in 20 counties throughout the state. These lakes vary in size from 13 to 184 acres, collectively covering 1,912 surface acres.

The stunning beauty of these lakes often comes with an unwelcome surprise—snakes.

Monitoring snake populations presents a unique set of challenges for various reasons. “Their nocturnal and avoidant nature has only recently earned them the status of priority species for protection,” said A-Z Animals.

Water snakes inhabit many lakes in Alabama and can often be more venomous than their terrestrial counterparts.

Alabama's Top Snake-Infested Lakes Revealed

Lake Guntersville

Lake Guntersville, created by the Guntersville Dam along the Tennessee River, is celebrated for its captivating history and breathtaking scenery.

“This lake is home to various snake species, including both water and land snakes. Among them are the venomous water moccasins, copperheads, and non-venomous water snakes, as well as terrestrial snakes like rat snakes and garter snakes,” said A-Z Animals.

Lake Martin

Lake Martin, formed by the Martin Dam on the Tallapoosa River, stands as one of the largest and most impressive man-made lakes in the United States.

According to A-Z Animals, you can find “water snakes such as the cottonmouth (water moccasin), copperheads, and non-venomous water snakes.” Also, “land snakes such as rat snakes and garter snakes.”

Lay Lake

Lay Lake is located on the Coosa River.

“Venomous species like the copperhead and water moccasin, as well as their non-venomous counterparts, may inhabit the lake’s diverse ecosystem,” said A-Z Animals.

Weiss Lake

Weiss Lake, nestled along the Coosa River, is celebrated for its outstanding fishing opportunities and thriving wildlife.

A-Z Animals said, “While venomous snakes like the copperhead and water moccasin may be found in the area, it’s essential to remember that these snakes typically avoid human encounters and do not act aggressively unless provoked.” Also, there are “non-venomous water snakes and land snakes, such as rat snakes and garter snakes.”