Fortunately never even hunting East Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve for many years. I came close a couple of times in Big Cypress almost stepping on one in the muzzleloading season. Had a big cottonmouth come after me crossing a swamp in Holmes county many years ago. Extremely aggressive even for a cottonmouth. I had a good friend who turned my fear into respect and purposely took me around the swamp to find them and understand how far they could strike and where they hide. Helps when you understand their limitations and don’t mess with them. He used to collect cottonmouths and rattlesnakes in the 60s and 70s and sell them to Bill Haast and got bit on the thumb once. Said it hurt bad but didn’t inject a lot of venom. Went to the local doctor who shot him up with antivenin and antibiotics. Another friend had same experience with good dose of venom and intense pain and swelling. An acquaintance I used to hunt with got bit by a cottonmouth and an Eastern Diamondback. The rattlesnake got him on the foot on a buggy trail wearing sandals. He said it was really bad. Stuck his foot in a 150 quart marine cooler because of swelling. Pain was intense. By the time his friends got him out in the buggy he passed out. Woke up in the hospital days later. Almost died. Lucky he didn’t lose his foot. I almost always wear snake boots after hearing about their experiences. I always look carefully before I sit down when I’m turkey hunting. With my luck I’ll get bit in the butt. rofl