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Patrons of the Mangum Rattlesnake Derby
have the opportunity to travel deep into the countryside for their
opportunity to hunt rattlesnakes. Normally, two caravans a day depart on
guided hunts to private lands. The hunts normally last 4-6 hours. Of
course, all this depends on the weather.
All potential hunters must register at
Rattlesnake Headquarters to be part of the rattlesnake hunts. The
hunters gather behind the stage platform in designated parking. After a
brief hunter's safety briefing the hunters are led to the wilds of
southwest Oklahoma in an attempt to catch the elusive rattlesnake.
Furthermore, hunters who catch the snakes will have the opportunity to
sell their catch to the Rattlesnake Association. Each snake is entered
into a chance to win the "Snake of the Day" award.
Also, all hunters are given a free meal
on Saturday night. At the dinner, awards are given out for "Snake of the
Day" as well as tons of door prizes. Hunters are also given the
opportunity to share their hunting experiences. If nothing else, the
hunters at the very least gain an experience and bragging rights to take
home for their friends.
Helpful Hunter Links
Rattlesnake Hunt rules (.pdf) | Past Derby Winners (.pdf) | Snake Hunting Instructional Video | How to Treat a Snake Bite | Oklahoma Laws pertaining to Snake Hunting
ITS THE LAW
Oklahoma prohibits any person from "introduc[ing], deposit[ing], or
drain[ing] any deleterious, noxious, toxic or petroleum based substance
into or around any underground dens or rock crevices for the purpose of
taking [rattlesnakes]." Okla. Admin. Code
§ 800:25-7-7 (2009) (Authorized by Okla.
stat. tit. 29 §§ 3-103, 3-312 & 5-401). Thus, the Shortgrass Rattlesnake
Association ("Association") will not, under any circumstances, purchase
any rattlesnakes, from any hunter, in which the Association reasonably
believes procured such snakes by a prohibited means. Furthermore, the
Association will immediately report any violator to the proper
authorities pursuant to Okla. stat. tit. 29 § 1-101 et. seq.
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