Thanks for all the advice Doc, you mentioned some things I haven't even considered yet. I heard of bringing probing sticks to tap on nearby shrubs to scare snakes off, and for testing ground ahead of you as well so I'll be doing that this season for sure.
It's really the unknown that creeps me out, since I'll be alone I'm truly worried about those quicksand-like depressions that I may not be able to get out of. My swamps don't have current, so I don't have to worry about that so much. I'll be on my toes though, and take everything you mentioned into consideration. Thanks Doc!