Deep Fried West Texas Rattlesnake

1 rattlesnake, cut into 3-inch pieces
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 cup oil
1 tsp. salt
Fritter Batter
Oil

Marinate meat in refrigerator overnight in lemon juice, 1/4 cup oil, and salt. Baste meat occasionally. Wipe meat dry. Dip pieces in Fritter Batter. Deep-fat fry in heavy skillet.

Fritter Batter
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup plus 1 to 2 tbsp. self-rising flour

Beat together eggs and milk; stir in flour. Let batter rest about 20 minutes. Batter should be quite runny, like fresh cream, when used. Only a thin batter will fry crisp