Willie Edwards and Little Willie Capture the 12-Foot Renegade Gator : Swamp People S15 E9

In Swamp People Season 15, Episode 9, titled “Gator Stakes,” which aired on February 29, 2024, tensions run high as hunters attempt to settle scores mid-season. While the episode features multiple arcs—including Ronnie assisting an injured Timmy, Don and Anna’s secret gator-catching bet, and Daniel Edgar’s solo quest—this recap zooms in on Willie and Little Willie Edwards‘ dogged pursuit of a notorious gator known as Renegade.

This storyline builds on previous episodes like “Chasing a Legend” and “Down to the Wire,” where the Edwards team faced treacherous terrain and unpredictable gator behavior. In this episode, however, the threat is not just environmental—it’s personal.

The Hunt Begins: A Monster Named Renegade

The father-son duo returns to a spot where Willie recently scouted a massive bull gator. Nicknaming him “Renegade,” the pair waste no time initiating the chase:

“He’s big too.” – Willie Edwards

“That’s him. That’s the Renegade.” – Little Willie Edwards

Armed with firsthand sightings and fresh sign, they make several attempts to trap the beast. The first encounter ends with the gator escaping the hook, a move that frustrates both hunters but doesn’t deter their resolve.

Frustration Builds: Time Slips Away

Despite snagging a different gator, Little Willie immediately notes it’s not their target:

“He’s not big enough to be the Renegade.”

The Renegade’s evasiveness begins to wear them down. Willie remarks:

“Once you fool the alligator so much, he will disappear on you… It’s 20 times harder to catch him again.”

Willie adds:

“He’s slick and he know what he’s doing… like you’re hunting ghosts.”

Tactical Shift: Gator Nest Strategy

Realizing Renegade is likely circling breeding territory, Willie shifts strategy by targeting gator nests, explaining:

“If you want to catch big alligators, that’s the way.”

They double down on setting lines in the vicinity of nests, betting the monster will return. As sunlight fades, pressure mounts. But Willie remains steady:

“You gotta keep going and hold your head up… and keep your head in the game.”

The Final Battle: Renegade Rises

In the episode’s climax, the gator emerges.

“That’s the Renegade!” – Little Willie

“Twelve foot.” – Little Willie
“You know, decent.” – Willie

A violent battle follows, with the boat rocking and gear tested to the limit. But this time, their aim is true. The massive bull gator is subdued and finally pulled into the boat.

“It’s a good feeling. ‘Cause I know this alligator’s in the boat, and we’re calling it a day.” – Little Willie

Persistence Pays Off

The capture of Renegade delivers not only relief but a symbolic win for the Edwards family. It showcases their signature blend of patience, skill, and sheer resilience. In contrast to the chaotic and sometimes fractured hunts of other teams in the episode, the Edwards duo proves that precision and calm can still dominate the swamp.