844-Lb. Alligator Found Lurking in South Carolina Lake is Confirmed as Second Largest Gator in the State

A colossal alligator, affectionately known as “Snaggletooth,” has emerged from the depths of Lake Moultrie in South Carolina, marking a significant moment in the state’s wildlife records. The enormous reptile tipped the scales at an impressive 844 pounds and measured 14 feet, making it the second-largest alligator confirmed to have been harvested in South Carolina. This remarkable catch took place on 28 September, following a prolonged pursuit that captured the attention of both professional hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.

The hunt for Snaggletooth was led by Cole Poplin of Renegade Bowfishing, who was joined by William Ard along with clients Chris Webb and his father, Craig Webb. The group began their expedition shortly before midnight, armed with a commitment to find a notable alligator. However, the night did not start as simply as they might have hoped; within the first 20 minutes, they encountered an alligator measuring over 11 feet but opted to continue their quest for something larger.

Throughout the course of the evening, the hunters tracked down at least 20 alligators, but they only fixed their sights on Snaggletooth after several passes through the reeds. As Poplin and Webb spotted the much larger creature, the excitement grew, leading to a frantic effort to secure it. The team relied on harpoons to regain control of the giant alligator before they endeavoured to haul it aboard their vessel.

Capturing such a magnificent beast proved to be physically demanding. According to Chris Webb, moving Snaggletooth onto the boat was a near-impossible task that nearly overwhelmed their winch. When they returned to the boat ramp, initial estimates placed the creature’s length at about 13 feet. However, following an official measurement, the team measured Snaggletooth at a remarkable 14 feet, igniting a sense of accomplishment and excitement.

Reflecting on the night’s events, Chris Webb expressed his awe at the catch in a Facebook post, declaring it a “hunt of a lifetime.” He was grateful for the expertise of Poplin and Ard throughout the experience, as well as the assistance of others involved in managing the logistics of weighing and processing the massive creature. With the revelation of its length, the group celebrated what they believed might be a new state record, excitedly exclaiming, “STATE RECORD BABY!”

Notably, Snaggletooth was not the first imposing alligator Poplin and Ard encountered this season. Earlier in September, Poplin had hunted and harvested a 12-foot, 9-inch alligator weighing 769 pounds at the Santee Cooper lakes. While he acknowledged his success that day as a “certified giant,” it was clear that the duo was still on the lookout for something even more exceptional.

Lake Moultrie holds a longstanding reputation as a site for some of South Carolina’s largest alligators. The illustrious title of the largest confirmed alligator harvest in the state belongs to a creature pulled from the same lake in 2010. That year, Massachusetts resident Maryellen Mara-Christian made headlines when she captured a staggering 1,025-pound, 13-foot alligator. This hunt was particularly notable as it was her first-ever experience hunting alligators, despite her previous experience with other wildlife.

In the wake of this latest capture, the enthusiasm surrounding alligator hunting in South Carolina continues to gain momentum, with both seasoned hunters and novices eager to explore the state’s rich natural resources. The story of Snaggletooth not only contributes to the football-sized lore surrounding Lake Moultrie but also highlights the thrill and challenges associated with hunting these remarkable creatures.

As the community rallies around this impressive catch, there is a palpable sense of admiration and respect for both the hunters and the awe-inspiring reptile that now resides in the narrative of South Carolina’s wildlife history. Snaggletooth will undoubtedly be remembered not just for its size but also for the stories of perseverance and camaraderie that accompanied its capture.