This picture clearly shows the portion of the Fool Hollow Lake where the Monster was swimming and the tree behind which he disappeared from view, at the right edge of the picture, while I was adjusting my camera.

After a winter with plenty of precipitation, the water level in the Fool Hollow Lake was up and the Fool Hollow Lake Monster, affectionately known by the locals as Messie, was expected to be out and frolicking.  This picture was taken from inside a car that was parked near the lake.  A snow storm was in progress at the time and partially obscured  the view of what appears to be Messie with his nose extended as he makes his characteristic hooting noise.  Inexperienced observers will sometimes observe a tall, pointed tree stump which is located in this part of the lake, and which is shaped very much like Messie, and mistake the tree stump for Messie.  However, in this photo Messie is exactly in line with the stump which is, therefore, not visible.