Rattlesnake season in Pa. growing in popularity for hunters looking for new adventures

Some hunters are always looking for the next challenge. And July in Pennsylvania is a time when that new challenge is possible.

The Pa. rattlesnake season is underway and runs until July 31. The season is regulated by the state Fish and Boat Commission.

Kristin Hankey of Rural Valley tagged along with her dad in Elk County during a rattlesnake hunt because she was looking for a new kind of outdoor adventure.

“I had zero idea what to expect when hunting them,” she said. “I knew they lived near rocks, woodpiles and would strike at you if you got too close."

Hunters must have a valid fishing license and snake permit issued by the commission. After acquiring a permit, hunters can kill or possess one male timber rattlesnake, at least 42 inches long, not including the rattle, with 21 or more subcaudal scales.

If you get a venomous snake permit, it authorizes possession of the timber rattlesnake and the northern copperhead, but not the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, which is a state endangered species.

“I went with a group of five guys who had their license, and they all had snake tongs, a plastic tube and a cooler. All new territory for me,” Hankey said.

Rattlers are placed alive in a clear plastic tube to measure and avoid illegal killing.

More information on how to properly measure a rattlesnake can be found on the Fish and Coat Commission website.

 “Next year, I'm buying myself a pair of snake chaps, tongs and getting my license,” Hankey said. “I have gained a tremendous respect for the snakes, learning where they prefer to live and their behavior. Now, I can keep my kids and family safe when we go to camp.”