The snakes our definitely thick this year. I am seeing about 5 - 10 a day here on Ky lake and Barkley. Luckily I haven't had any close calls like you. I am not afraid of snakes at all - when they are in a cage and I know what they are - I won't even hesitate to hold one. In fact I have owned several. However, when they are going through the yard, or especially swimming in the water - I am scared to death of them. I just let them be, and they have never bothered me, hopefully it will stay that way.