Monday, May 4, 2015

{Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders} Re: SNP - Wildlife and safety

I've been inside the park hiking and fishing on many occasions and never seen a bear.  I know they are there but are clearly scarce and avoid people.  I would guess that bear spray is about the only precautionary measure you need to take in that regard (although I never take any).  As for snakes, they are definitely there--copperheads and rattlesnakes--as well as other non-venemous species.  The best precautions you can take for snakes is watch your steps, be careful stepping over logs and rocks because you often can't see the back side, and it is very helpful to carry a wading or hiking staff and beat the ground in front of you, especially when walking through thick cover.  You can also use it to test out the area over a log or rock if you can't see behind it.  You'll either entice a strike or scare away what is there before sticking your foot in striking distance.  It's true that copperheads or rattlesnakes won't seek you out, but they are often hidden and the strike occurs when you startle them or they feel cornered--which, if they are under a rock or log and your foot/leg is blocking their exit, they are cornered.  I grew up in Mississippi and have had my fair share of run-ins with rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths (these are the worst).  Compared to the South, snakes are scarce up here.
 
 
 

On Saturday, May 2, 2015 at 9:28:12 PM UTC-4, samuel newcomer wrote:
Hello, 

I just went out to SNP for the first time today and claimed the dignity of over 20 brookies on the fiberglass 3wt.  What a blast!!  However, I have seen some stuff on the boards about snakes and other somewhat nefarious creatures out that way. I realized later, being so immersed in fishing a bear could have smacked me upside the head and I don't think I would have noticed. 


 I was curious what precautionary items you folks that fish out that way may take along or recommend taking.  

I appreciate the advice in advance and if you want to head out that way let me know!!!!

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