However, I'm also not stupid enough to go chasing after one in its own habitat, either.
I think you just called me stupid

At last...yer right!!!! And you agree with Punks

Makes you wonder what they planned to do with them once they had them in hand.
"OMG! I'M HOLDING A RATTLESNAKE!!!"
WOW...some people are just stupid!
Some how, I get this strong feeling that you were out of your element out there on the lake. May I ask what you planned on doing once you picked up the snake with the stick?
OUT OF MY ELEMENT??? I'll have you know I use to OWN the woods as a kid.
What did I plan to do with a nasty, angry snake on a stick? Hmmmm...never really thought that far ahead. Probably some Steve Irwin thing like saying "Croiky!!! Aint she BEAUTIFUL!?!? and just look at those fangs! See how angry she get when I do this...."
Out of my element! sheesh!