They're one of my top five snakes, too. They generally don't use their venom on people (or any predators, apparently); it's all for their prey. I don't know of anyone who's been bitten, but I can't imagine their bite does much more than make a rash.

Yeah, I've only seen a few when I haven't been actively looking for them (as in, checking under things and/or netting ponds and streams); they're very good at hiding. And no problem, I'm glad you liked them :)