Ep 1. High Water Hell

In season 7 of Swamp People, the first episode, titled High Water Hell, follows the alligator hunters of the Atchafalaya Swamp in Louisiana as they face the challenges of hunting during the high water season. The episode starts with a glimpse of the aftermath of the devastating floods that hit Louisiana in 2016 and how they altered the landscape of the swamp to a considerable extent.

The hunters are seen struggling with the rising waters as they try to place their lines and set their traps in the swamp. As the water level increases, the gators become more difficult to locate, and the hunters have to work harder to catch them. One team, in particular, faces multiple setbacks, including broken boats and lost baits, which put their chances of catching alligators in jeopardy.

Meanwhile, one of the senior hunters, Troy Landry, is approached by a new partner, Chase Landry, who hopes to learn the tricks of the trade from the veteran. Troy takes Chase under his wing and teaches him how to navigate the swamp, locate alligators, and catch them effectively. The two form an unlikely bond as the seasoned hunter patiently passes on his expertise to the aspiring one.

Another hunting duo, Jacob and Holden, gradually find themselves in a precarious situation as they venture deeper into a remote part of the swamp. With their boat stuck in shallow waters and the gators nowhere in sight, they resort to unconventional means to get their catch. The episode sees them display their resourcefulness and resilience as they overcome various hardships to haul in some sizable gators.

Elsewhere in the swamp, Bruce Mitchell prepares for the upcoming alligator season by mending his boats and fine-tuning his equipment. The seasoned hunter reflects on his past experiences, the challenges he has faced, and the changes he has seen in the swamp over the years.

The episode also showcases the vast and varied ecosystem of the Atchafalaya Swamp, from the wide-open waters to dense and labyrinthine bayous. The hunters encounter various other creatures, from poisonous snakes to soaring bald eagles to playful river otters, adding to the show's immersive and informative nature.

Overall, High Water Hell is an exciting and gripping start to Swamp People's seventh season, showcasing the skill, determination of the hunters as they brave the unpredictable and perilous swamp conditions to bring in their catch. The show continues to provide a fascinating window into the unique and challenging world of alligator hunting in Louisiana.