A mother and daughter had an unforgettable fishing trip on the Mississippi River when they encountered a giant turtle that startled.
Fishing on the Mississippi River near Brainerd, Minnesota, turned into a memorable adventure for Shala Holm and her daughter Avery.
While casting their lines, the duo was unexpectedly confronted by a massive creature with bear-like claws emerging from the water.
What seemed like a scene from a horror movie was actually a close encounter with a giant snapping turtle.
A startling encounter in the Mississippi river
While fishing on the Mississippi River near Brainerd, Minnesota, Shala Holm and her daughter Avery were taken aback by a surprising visitor from the depths.
They encountered a giant creature with massive, bear-like claws emerging from the water, creating a moment of sheer astonishment.
Additionally, The creature, initially mistaken for a mythical beast, was eventually identified as a snapping turtle.
This prehistoric-looking reptile is known for its powerful bite and intimidating appearance.
Shala described the moment of discovery
Suddenly, my daughter said, ‘Mom, be quiet, I hear something breathing.’ It took a while before we saw the nose of a turtle swimming toward the kayak. As it got closer, we realized how massive it was. It dove under the kayak and latched onto the fishing basket with its claws. We were incredibly startled by its size.”
A giant snapping turtle with bear-like claws was discovered.
Shala estimated the turtle to be about 29 inches across.
Despite her initial fear, she admitted that being in such close proximity to the turtle heightened her anxiety.
She was concerned about how aggressive the turtle might be, especially with the fishing basket involved.
“I was nervous about grabbing the handle of the basket,” Shala explained.
“I wasn’t sure if the turtle wanted the fish or if it might try to get into the kayak. We’ve all heard stories about snapping turtles breaking broomstick handles, so my concern was understandable.”
After managing to free the basket, Shala and Avery quickly retreated.
Shala managed to capture a few photos of the creature, documenting its impressive size and claws. She noted:
“I was amazed at the size of its legs and claws. Its feet were the size of my fist, and the claws were quite formidable. I was worried it might claw its way onto the basket.” She added.
Despite their frightening experience, Shala and Avery returned the next day to take more photos.
Shala sent these photos to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which estimated the turtle to be around 15 years old.
After the incident, Shala hopes to encounter the giant creature again in the future.
Given that snapping turtles can live for over 100 years, there’s a good chance she might see it again on her next visit.
This encounter with the giant snapping giant creature serves as a reminder of the impressive and often startling wildlife that inhabits our rivers.
