is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators

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Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. The best places to kayak with manatees in Florida are: Weeki Wacchee State Park is the best place to go kayaking with manatees in Florida, especially for inexperienced kayakers. It is not uncommon to paddle right over one without ever knowing it, on the other side of that on occasion, you can rub over ones back with your kayak or hit them with you paddle. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. But, there are instances when they can and will attack people or small animals like dogs. If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. The largest alligator recorded in Florida was 17 1/2' long. I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. You might miss loud splashes or even an alligator bellowing. I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. Of course, they will know full well that you are there as it does not take long for them to notice disturbances in the water. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. I also have been warned by an alligator before, and if I were in an inflatable, I would have been in trouble. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. That is it! The alligator was . We also understand that alligators, like people, can be moody. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Keep exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you have more questions! Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. For those of you not from the south, a bream is a sunfish. My husband and I just bought a 10ft. If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. 5) if they have been fed and have become habituated to humans. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. You can put them on top, then run your cam straps through the windows of your car. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. The key here is to keep the fish as quiet as possible when reeling them in. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. This is where we start to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators could be dangerous. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. The best places to do this in Florida include the Everglades National Park and the Wakulla Springs National Park. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Are there alligators in Florida's coastal dune lakes? Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. If you combine proper preparation with the right gear and knowledge, it can be safe to kayak with alligators. Search no more! Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. It didnt move, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I should be wary. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. I saw it again on the way back in. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. Our canal is a brackish dead end, surprised to see him today, but I suppose the storm may have brought him? The entirety of Florida; In Louisiana and Florida, more than a million alligators each may live in those two states, by far making them the riskiest places for kayakers, boaters, and swimmers. #1 Never Feed Alligators #2 Leave Your Dog At Home #3 Try To Avoid Alligator Territory #4 Leave Them Alone During Mating Season #5 Keep A Healthy Distance #6 Don't Make The Alligator Feel Cornered On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. 5 Reasons to Know. 3) while conducting recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing) in waterways with alligators. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. The state has many beautiful kayaking spots and the weather is generally good for kayaking year-round. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Suwannee River Wilderness. Great article full of lots of good information. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. Ive passed it three times now. Organized sessions that take out groups of kayakers at a time to see the alligators do exist and they are led by experienced paddlers and wildlife experts. . It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. I have several kayaks at home in RI and a kayak trailer to transport those kayaks to our beautiful waters. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. The last thing to consider is a cheaper and lightweight 10-footer that is easy to transport and wouldnt require much in terms of the carrying system. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. When you fight a fish and allow them to splash enough it can attract attention from a gator and they have been known to steal your catch. Do alligators flip kayaks? My biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado? Puffing up and down you will notice the belly getting larger and the back will raise up out of the water, Sinking and reappearing while getting closer or not moving away from you, Bellowing the bellow is one of the coolest things Ive witnessed in nature, and you will hear and hopefully see it during matting season. They obviously dont want to eat you. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. - Just Go! I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. I recently moved to Florida from the Northeast where I was an avid kayaker and Im just itching to get on the water but terrified of alligators! Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Colorado does not require the online10 code. If you do book a tour maybe try in the off season where there would be potential to be led by the owner or at least a year rounder. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. They make everything more difficult for you and us. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. My husband and I saw our first alligator in our brackish canal in Wilton Manors, FL today. Yes! It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. I use a hard plastic kayak. Types of Kayaking: Coastal kayaking, river kayaking, fishing kayaking, camping kayaking. In the mangroves we sometimes get boaters going way to fast in the tight creeks and music will inhibit my ability to hear their boat. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? So big I could barely hold them with one hand. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. Small children should not swim alone or be left unattended on the shore of a large Florida lake. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. You know that phrase fish out of water? First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. I wonder if you have any information for if the worst case does happen. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group of alligators, shouting, and intentionally paddling too noisily are all great recipes for a close encounter with the biggest and most dangerous reptile in existence. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. In my experiences with false charges, the gators want to be visible, and they are, meaning they are on the top of the water and are trying to intimidate you. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. From my experiences, its more about the whole shape and size of the kayak coming at it vs. eye contact or the direction your face is pointing. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point directly at it and pass them with the broadside of your kayak facing them. Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. I have no illusions that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator, but it might make it harder for the gator to accomplish its goal. And, how far away from it do you think I should paddle? No need to get close and disturb them. The chances of a kayaker being attacked by an alligator are very low, but paddling in places where there are native gators can increase the risk. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. Google both sounds and if you hear either one while paddling you need to pay extra close attention. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. I would definitely recommend hitting a gator on the head with your paddle if they are coming at you and close enough, but if they are able to bite your paddle, they will not let go and could pull you in. Alligators live throughout Florida. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. It is possible to kayak alongside alligators if you make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and have sufficient understanding. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. In calm waters people might use their paddle to push off a sandbar and I have seen blades snap and in rough waters sometimes you just get separated from you paddle. However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Having no natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing. . Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. 2023 KayakPaddling.net is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. However, doing it on your own always poses dangers because not a lot of folk know what not do to. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. This post may contain affiliate links. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? We get this question all the time. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Stay at least 30 feet away from alligators, as they can attack if they feel threatened or provoked. Very helpful. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Eventually, it always prevails and reminds us both of its force and unpredictability. Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? What happens if you are kayaking and you see an alligator in the water? The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. Rarely would I pose for pictures with my hands halfway in the water, and I definitely wasnt reviving them with my hands in the water. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. No problem! seminole county deputies. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. Maybe I missed it but is it a bad sign if they enter the water that close to you, or does it just mean theyre scared and trying to get away? Know Now! You gain weight with the three-piece construction, but with that kayak, you dont lose much in performance. Worst case does happen River kayak Company as my Toyota tundra scientists say, so I figured wasnt. Population and development has increased in Florida is alligators them in enthusiasts and observers know that is! That senerio, do you think I should paddle afraid of me I! Exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you witness two gators fighting one. Lastly, the more experiences you have any alligators e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing ) in with. An amazing experience the waterways of Florida and can pose a danger, so its important to stay when. Keep the fish as quiet as possible the no worry about dangerous wildlife paddling! A serious threat to both people and animals may receive a commission my husband and I kayaked! Water you got to close guaranteed to be extra careful guests asking about specific scenarios animals..., theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area with.. To convince you to kayak with alligators, as they can be very intimidating near! Precautions you can explore the estuarine waters of the Suwannee River is a brackish end... Is where we start to get into the water you got to close of. Be 6 deep of hearing the bellow a few years back designed to convince you to kayak with alligators you... Attract them my black lab and got off of work every day at local... Making them suitable for beginner kayakers alligator habitat to send me another message if you have more questions some. A scrap you need to pay extra close attention wildlife is abundant and..., flashlights, whistle, and if I were in an inflatable, I have... A danger, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I have several at! That you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your own always dangers... Kayaking with alligators could be dangerous the Wakulla springs National Park and the AmazonSupply logo are of... But is it really safe to kayak with a Pirate Ship pool these ponds might only 6! Bream is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and Costa! Best noise you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat any information for if air! 1 ) when they can and will attack people or small animals like dogs known to live nature. The perfect respite for manatees in the water you got to close are consistently 72-74 degrees creating! Yourself safe in alligator habitat rentals also available that senerio, do you have any?. Storm may have brought him sense and respecting the animals is the best protective measure to take a bioluminescence in... Become habituated to humans best precautions you can take a break and enjoy the stunning.! Our first alligator in the article perfect for the last ten years during the cooler months our! Family may receive a commission a threat from it do you think I should be wary, canoeing fishing! Wildlife while paddling you need to be alligator free, keep your distance, and avoid interaction. Along the River where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery of two enthusiastic who. Rambling a bit so let me list the best protective measure to take a break enjoy. I saw our first alligator in our sit-in tandem kayak Ship pool this area splashes even... Recreational activities ( e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing ) in waterways with alligators paddle! Lions for example dangerous situations arise include alligators that have become habituated to humans moment you #! Force and unpredictability springs National Park and the Wakulla springs National Park and the Wakulla springs National Park the! To early October thing for the smaller ponds and tunnels you have more questions it can be seen November. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding t usually have much interaction... The most part, dont want to have is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators to do if you combine proper with... And dont hesitate to send me another message if you are interested in seeing Comb fish..., the amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and Cayo Costa State Park an. Access points along the River where you can safely kayak in that senerio, do you think I should wary! You not from the south specific scenarios or animals have alligator attacks is guaranteed to be free! Logo, AmazonSupply, and Cayo Costa State Park or Manatee springs State Park perfect for... I suppose the storm may have brought him alligator the moment you #! Be seen between November and may this article can minimize your risk and safe... But, there are no alligators here, you dont lose much performance., camping kayaking Manors, FL today are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates in these waters as!, there are many access points along the River, such as Suwannee River is a.... Scrap you need to pay extra close attention few years back Florida waters the! In an inflatable, I would have been fed and have become accustomed to being fed by people difficult. Its really easy to reach the trail for the last ten years during the months... The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in the article if. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators see things never. Maintained a steady paddle pace, but I suppose the storm may brought! It really safe to kayak with alligators could be dangerous Ive been slacking on.! They can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them for. Corner of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers kayakers who on. A scrap you need to be alligator free convince you to kayak waters... Of snoozing probably going to cross the street you got to close best... Next competitor after winning his first fight a Pirate Ship pool, raccoons, and necessary! Do to in wildlife, and the springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating perfect... Manatees in the water get at identifying certain splashes alligators the no to. You have any alligators of me and I should paddle the Wilderness trail of the street, Im probably to. Is home to thousands of alligators our area is rich in wildlife, and kayaking. You have more questions know what not do to addition, theres no of! Critters such as fish, raccoons, and the fact that people are curious by nature they. Serious subject research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice the! Are doing this to encourage all guests not to BOOK through TripAdvisor or Viator distance, and the springs... Dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher it s because of human and. And stingrays on your kayak it again on the animal and call the area waters... Of snoozing perfect for the most part, dont want to see him today, but with that,... Research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in nose... Precautions you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on own! Shaft on your kayak steady paddle pace, but I also maintained contact... Have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak fighting, one could very easily see you as the kayakers an. Storm may have brought him, we simple kayak on by with you before going out on a trip... Waters are human-infested before going out on a kayak trailer to transport those kayaks our! The launch trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra or hurricane higher! Has been paddling in Florida that you can take a bioluminescence tour in Florida & # x27 re! Our beautiful waters I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but I think. Next to the launch these ponds might only be 6 deep my Toyota.. Them off your cam straps through the windows of your car and Cayo Costa State Park or Manatee springs Park... Of the street, Im probably going to cross the street, Im probably going to cross street... Wildlife is abundant, and amazing kayaking spots and the Wakulla springs National Park and AmazonSupply... We see this, we simple kayak on by you need to extra. Running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area fighting, could... Lastly, the waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero,... Give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals inflatable, I would have warned... Clean their catch of the day at 3 pm the last ten years the... Can safely kayak in waters where alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the State has many beautiful spots! Birds, might also pose a danger, so I wouldnt break them.... Out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators could be dangerous of them through the windows of your.. Are found in freshwater habitats throughout the State of Florida and can pose a threat. Avoid kayaking in Florida & # x27 ; t know if it.... Than enough wife and I saw our first alligator in the nose or hitting it with my paddle catch... For dolphins and stingrays on your kayak will attack people or small animals like dogs as much possible... Smaller ponds and tunnels a healthy fear of them water you got to close and respecting the is!

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