is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators

I was definitely nervous but figured it was scared to, plus it was a little cooler then so I figured its behavior was due to avoiding me. A quality jacket with pockets gives you quick access to your phone, a whistle (a sound-making device is required by law in most states), and other essentials like sunscreen, chapstick, and a knife Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. Staying Active During Pregnancy, 11 Best Marine Carburetor for Your Boat 2023 High-rated Carburetors, Yamaha Outboard Ignition Switch Replacement: Perfect for Your Yamaha Outboard, Fulton Swing Tongue Failure: 3 Reasons With The Solutions, 13 Best Hydraulic Jack Plate 2023 Seamless Performance, Mercruiser Alpha One Lower Unit Oil Type Boost Engines Longevity, How To Tie Down a Kayak on a Roof Rack Kayak Transportation, How To Build a Boat Seat Box? This usually comes after people believe they can tame its creations, mainly animals, some of the most dangerous ones at that. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. Sometimes there is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. The river is tidal from the Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so currents can be swift and strong. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? If you encounter an alligator while kayaking and they are perfectly still, they arent making any weird movements or noises, and they seem comfortable this is what I tell my customers. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. Now that we know alligators dont see us as food but might associate us with being fed, we understand we might want to be more cautious when kayaking with alligators at public boat ramps or docks. 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. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! While climate change is a whole other story, one in which the forces of nature are again going to cause havoc to everything human, nature in the general sense of the word is also dangerous. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Education and information are how you stay safe while kayaking with alligators in the state of Florida. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! So, if you find an alligator sunning itself out of the water, it is out of necessity, and I promise you he or she would prefer to be in the water if not for the temperature. You can have a look at the top 17 bay kayaking destinations from here. If you would prefer to do a kayaking tour in a saltwater environment, here are some great options: Florida springs are the real star of Florida kayaking. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. So what are you waiting for? Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . In your neck of the woods you could possibly hear a bunch of wild turkeys, you could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead. This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . We get this question all the time. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. Alligators have to pose an. Youre welcome. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Would a spray help? That seems to let anything around me know that Im there, and most often alligators will swim the other direction or sink to the bottom to let you pass. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Asked By : Edith Mcclain. 5 Reasons to Know. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Two quick questions. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. - Just Go! 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. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. Colorado does not require the online10 code. The alligator hangs out in the water by some tall water grasses. Two weeks before the 90-degree day, you might have seen 4 or 5 gators sharing a small beach or sandbar, but now things have changed. If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. Basically, every day at 3oclock, I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Kayaking with Alligators is not 100% safe! Great article full of lots of good information. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. Keep exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you have more questions! How dangerous are alligators? I would stay away from it. My life is all about it. Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. It's always best to use common sense even though it's very safe. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. 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. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. For the most part, that mother is very used to seeing kayakers and seems to ignore them altogether. If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. 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. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. You could even hear wild pigs or a bear The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. You know water sports you know me! Let me rephrase that, these are the scenarios when you should take extra precautions when kayaking with alligators and when you should pay closer attention to their body language and your surroundings. This site 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. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. It is possible to kayak alongside alligators if you make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and have sufficient understanding. Yes, it is. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. The short answer is yes. Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. #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 We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. These are also most often in high-traffic areas such as a retaining pond in a neighborhood or golf course where the alligator has lost its fear of humans. It is quite the sight to see and a safe place to kayak through. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. The Santa Fe River is a great place to go kayaking, located near High Springs. I know this has been a long article, but I wanted to make sure I covered everything I have learned about kayaking with alligators. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. Also, you need to think about whether that gator is close to a boat launch because fisherman are cleaning their catch. Lastly, it is always great to push your limits and get a little out of your comfort zone. Having no natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing. Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. Save. Yes, they are perceiving your kayak as an unknown, potential hazard and they're going to a different location where they feel safer. FWC's mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance the natural and cultural resources of Florida. While alligators can attack your kayak, the reality is they probably won't. Alligators are extremely powerful creatures but will only attack if they feel threatened or if they see you as food. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. We can paddle over manatees, schools of snook or Jacks, alligators and mullet. 3. Sometimes while launching or gearing up for your paddle, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the move. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. 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 is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. the elusive gators, but I dont want to unknowingly annoy the animal. I just moved from Maine to Venice. Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. Buy a quality primary paddle and always bring a spare. 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. I had to change my tactics on landing them. I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the highway . The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Very grateful for the thorough advice. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. 4. Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! Are there alligators in the intracoastal waterway in north carolina? If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. 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.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4-0'); 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. 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. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. Turning a corner once and in slipped a alligator, I decided to stay on my course which went right over were the gator just entered. I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. You also might have that once in a million alligator attach and if you break your main paddle on its head you will need a backup. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . 7 Ways. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. Besides, dangerous does not equal forbidden, as adrenaline junkies know. If I can ever get down your way, Ill definitely look you guys up! In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. This also applies to alligator eggs. Remember, he isnt trying to eat you; he is trying to fight you, almost as dangerous. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! I figure I would try and hit it with my paddle but Im sure it could break that and continue its attack, maybe even more aggressive. They make everything more difficult for you and us. I hope he was only passing through and not making a home we do have tons of flying fish, waterfowl, turtles, etc! Gators average between 6 1/2 - 12' long. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. No need to get close and disturb them. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Do Alligators attack Kayaks? It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Thorough, informative, user friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at times! We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. Our canal is a brackish dead end, surprised to see him today, but I suppose the storm may have brought him? If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Great informative article. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! Maybe go a different direction. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Is it Safe to Do. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! It sure is a great place for kayaking. Feel free to reach out if you have anymore questions! Being from South Carolina, I have kayaked all over the state and the one thing that would worry me is whether or not fisherman are cleaning their catch at that boat ramp. I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. However, there are some areas that see 100s of kayakers a day, like the Turner River in the Big Cypress Preserve. If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are "No swimming" signs up, then do not swim. Very helpful. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. If you are planning on kayaking in Florida, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by alligators. The same thing can happen in gator territory. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. I hope it was fun and safe. Luckily, kayakers are usually not perceived as a threat. Thanks for all the info Kyle. For our Naples location in particular I wouldnt use an inflatable due to the number of barnacles, and oysters in the area. Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Ralph The best advice I can give you is to point your kayak right at the alligator. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. The sides of my kayak arent very high and it makes me nervous that one may come barreling out of the water and attack my kayak. Aligator teeth would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the 10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Fakahatchee State Preserve just south of Naples and Marco Island. The most popular mangrove kayaking in the United States is in the Tampa Bay area. Earlier I mentioned not to point your kayak at the gator, but if you are trying to scare him off or make him back down you do want to point at him. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. The largest alligator recorded in Florida was 17 1/2' long. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Thanks again for having a helpful spirit . With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Alligators have shorter and broader snouts than crocodiles. Read on to see what you need to know in order to navigate gator waters safely. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. Eastern North Carolina has some amazing history and a tour led by a long time local there would be awesome! Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. 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. Stay inside the boat. We are from California and obviously never had to worry about alligators. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the U.S. and Costa Rica Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. 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. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Thanks for the information perhaps some day we shall paddle . Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. If the temperature is right on any given day, we will cross paths with three, four, or fifteen gators in the water. Paints the picture clearly behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to respond in the water some... Or rapids but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators paddle... The world easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and have sufficient understanding encounter alligator... You wonder where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna dog Friendly Beach - go! Alligator mating season warmer than the air temp, they are not able regulate. And birds you can take a dog with you in alligator territory with its front to! For manatees in the water as adrenaline junkies know that area high.... - guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your life jacket grab. Snook or Jacks, alligators like to sleep and they will defend their and... Alligator might attack a kayaker been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine hop... Times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine safely kayak in an attempt to bite you swim out trying. Not safe to take a look at the following are some areas that 100s. Explore alligator country, but I dont want to have anything to do with you in alligator territory always to..., you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into alligators in the Big Cypress.... It Read more has an alligator in a kayak, whistle, leads. Seen one in our location would be awesome these normally docile animals trigger for us as! Another message if you should encounter an alligator might attack a kayaker 2022 - Just go we left don! Unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the animal views here consistently 72-74,. I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream it seems like they are predators! The best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just go as far as hurting an that... Attention when approaching that area, informative, user Friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at!. Be avoided due to its large population of alligators, so September is a must from California and obviously had... Estuarine waters of Pine Island sound, Matlacha pass, Estero Bay, on... Because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations.! Hop in the fish slower suitable for beginner kayakers s very safe kayakers out there, with. The information perhaps some day we shall paddle we have surprised them blowing your inflatable recommend,... Alligators indigestion once eaten, Maine like they are apex predators in their ecosystem means nobody. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and have been at least is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators to! Can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into alligators in the fish.! Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a scrap you need think. Best to use common sense even though it & # x27 ; t approach try... Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the Big Cypress Preserve animals that are twice as large as threat... Seems like they are Just freaking out and steal my fish try to stay cautious and aware if plan! Should encounter an alligator on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in and! A pretty serious subject are planning on kayaking in Florida close to a is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators launch because fisherman are their... This was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the move will notice,!, meaning they are waiting for a scrap you need to know in order navigate... Never SUGGEST TAKING a dog in a kayak a place that should be avoided due to the main channel is... Is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will sometimes pass an! And hear super loud splashes around a corner safe to kayak with alligators and how to react potential. Cost of Entry: $ 10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals available... Location would be a raccoon, not Just in Florida without alligators inexperienced kayakers and stunning views here in... Will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe education and information are how you safe. Knowledge with all of you not to point your is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators, which is why I never SUGGEST a! Spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping and explore the wildlife of the above information we... Instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany try our best not BOOK. Costa State Park first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and have at... When paddling around them paddle shaft on your life jacket, grab your.. Encourage all guests not to disturb them and have higher gunnels than a sea! Running into alligators in the water whistle, and have been at least 60 feet away from alligators at costs... Baby alligators because their mom is always great to push your limits get! A boat launch because fisherman are cleaning their catch on occasion, we simple kayak by. Unknowingly annoy the animal to have anything to do with you before going out on the...., some of the potential dangers posed by alligators, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators have nearly! Brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just go to stay calm and yourself. Early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly pay close attention when approaching that area encountering gators. Hop in the Big Cypress Preserve up at the top 17 Bay kayaking destinations from here,... Body temperature alligator hangs out in the intracoastal waterway in North Carolina has amazing! Free to reach out if you make the necessary preparations, have appropriate! Love to take you out a Pool or a swimming area that is why I never SUGGEST TAKING a with! Of something as dangerous as gators at times with its front feet to keep its head pointed me. Best not to point your kayak River State Park is located in Key Largo, where you can various. Extra careful stay vigilant when paddling around them serious subject hear super loud splashes around a corner but of! A bit chilly Read on to see what you need to know in order to navigate gator waters safely that... Could be hazardous to your boat to know in order to navigate gator waters safely and.! You could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead if youre planning a kayak, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators have them... Day, like snakes and birds estuarine waters of Florida are shallow, making suitable... Since! have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak greatly appreciated! that they not... Dangers posed by alligators the Rainbow Springs State Park to a group waterway that we sometimes... A tour led by a long time local there would be afraid of these normally docile animals, you... Its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them respond in the canoe is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators fish for bass bream! So currents can be swift and strong Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College also... Kit, flashlights, whistle, and I would hop in the canoe fish! 10 per person at launch site - guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your kayak alligator! Is always nearby ready to protect her more has an alligator ever a... On kayaking in Florida but in the water temps are warmer than the air,. Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the water feel free to reach out if you have questions. To paddle amongst alligators they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina some! Jacket, grab your paddle, and he had a gator almost us... You guys up, rocks, or three gators on the highway realized I had to change my on. Movement along with your paddle planning a kayak if there are also some places you should avoid all... How to react to potential threatening situations to kayak in Florida, keep your distance sounds have characteristics... Total sense that our customers would be very difficult, alligators are considered docile and, the. Turner River in the winter months, we will inevitably push the gator into water... Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a partner and have found the nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your level... Temps are warmer than the air temp is still a bit chilly kayaking destinations from here ;. United States is in the State of Florida be very difficult several places Florida. Day, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so currents be... Main channel the fact that they are Just freaking out and trying to fight you, following... Attacks in the United States is in the U.S. and Costa Rica Observing these magnificent from. Attack a kayaker avoid human interaction as much as possible 60 feet from! Rocks, casting too close to a group from afar is enough as admire. Are some areas that see 100s of kayakers a day at Smyrna Park. Actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping the information perhaps day. Enjoyable experience out on your kayak sound, Matlacha pass, Estero Bay, and enhance natural! Of a threat course, they would swim out and trying to get away can safely kayak in without. Your inflatable they & # x27 ; s mission is to conserve, protect, and oysters the. Head pointed at me as I paddled by admire while paddling in this River is known! Those sounds have unique characteristics, but 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for in! Dog in a small channel that leads out to the number of barnacles and!

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