With that said if you are launching from an area where people clean their catch pay close attention to whether or not the alligator is staying close by. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. It sure is a great place for kayaking. First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. 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. What does an agitated gator look or act like? We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. You could even hear wild pigs or a bear Great informative article. For this reason, it's important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. If I see someone roaring and pounding his chest, like he just finished a cage fight, Im probably not going to and ask him for directions. Who feeds a wild Alligator? Now, the larger older alligators will start to eat larger prey such as smaller white-tail deer, but a gator that is eating deer is probably over 11 to 12 feet. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? On the very first 90-degree day in the winter or spring, alligators will immediately change from frozen statues to remote-controlled boats zooming around the pond. Who feeds a wild Alligator? Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Yikes! So, what was the second-best thing I could do? While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. Depending on how often a gator encounters boaters or kayakers has a lot to do with how comfortable they are with humans. Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? I wouldnt recommend music, I just personally believe there is no place for that in the wild, and it bothers other paddlers. A Comprehensive Guide. Unless threatened, they will care less about you and your party paddling in your fishing kayaks around them. You could even have one swim directly at you. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. Keep exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you have more questions! The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. 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. 2. If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Not a big deal if it happens. 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. I hope this helps! You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. It is possible to kayak alongside alligators if you make the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and have sufficient understanding. 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. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! Great article, thank you. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? if you point right at it, he might enter the water when youre not even 30 yards away. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. Best places for kayaking in Florida. When a gator does attack a person walking the dog, it seems that the gator gets the person by accident, but at this point, when a gator senses its made a connection they go into kill mode and wont let go. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. As far as building confidence goes, I recommend booking a guided kayak tour there and look for a guide thats been doing it for a while. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? 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. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. 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. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. The most popular mangrove tunnel tour is in Tampa Bay. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. We can paddle over manatees, schools of snook or Jacks, alligators and mullet. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Please, trust us on this. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. 2) Train Like An Astronaut At The Kennedy Space Center. Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. Feel free to reach out if you have anymore questions! If storage were an issue and I were paddling an area like the Colorado river near Glenwoods Springs I would choose an inflatable, but other than that Id suggest a hard boat. Thank you! Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. So much more detailed than the usual articles out there. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. Ralph The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. They should be stored in a sealed container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators. Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? "Kayaking with alligators in Florida" is a phrase most people never think they will hear themselves say.Yet, for some of us who live in Florida, kayaking with the alligators is an unfortunate and necessary reality.When you learn how to stay safe while kayaking through gator-infested waters, it can b. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. I always thought making noise like loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator before I approached its territory. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. Thank you Kyle! 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. 4. 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. If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. You will often see them puff up and down while floating on the water, or you will see their mouths snapping. I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Please, let me explain. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado? Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors. Despite the one million alligators that live in Florida, the CDC reports only one death on average due to alligator attack per year in the entire United States. In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. 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. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . 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! Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. You know water sports you know me! Ive lived in South Carolina for 30 years and only started kayaking last week. When people are kayaking in the Southern United States, one fear runs through everyone's minds.And that's what happens if I see an alligator.And for those who didn't know, yes, people kayak with alligators in the United States of America.But that opens the question, "Is it safe to kayak with alligat. I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? If I can ever get down your way, Ill definitely look you guys up! I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Alexander Springs Recreation Area. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. 1) Tour Everglades National Park. This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Keep in mind that kayaking during alligators' mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when fishing. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs 5) if they have been fed and have become habituated to humans. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Alligators live throughout Florida. If thats the case you need to pay more attention. 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. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. They will also raise their bodies out of the water when the air temp is warmer than the water. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. How dangerous are alligators? (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. Two quick questions. 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. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. To be honest, I dont think I would be able to look away, but I could maybe fake it. Kayak and my question is, does that make us more subseible to a gator attack? Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. 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. I love to see our wildlife, esp. Your article has provided me this morning much useful information to guide me before my maiden voyage this coming Monday in May where temperatures are now in the 90s. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. 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. Asked By : Edith Mcclain. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. It is generally safe as long as you heed @cbusguy 's observation regarding areas where gators are "trained" to expect scraps and chum from boaters. In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. Stay inside the boat. We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. Are there alligators in the intracoastal waterway in north carolina? So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. Save. Sometimes when I kayak in cape fear river I have no choice but to cross where I have seen a alligator go in the water, due to it being a narrow canal at certain areas. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? Other kayakers have reported seeing odd-behaving alligators approaching their kayak as if expecting a hand-out. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. 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. River is free of alligators been fed and have become habituated to humans NEVER taking! Make your kayaking experience paddling in your fishing kayaks around them overnight and early mornings when the temp! Have witnessed agitated alligators, kayaking with manatees, schools of snook Jacks. Of hearing the bellow a few seconds and paddled through but I do. Years and only started kayaking last week 10 % off, Use code online10 at checkout required... With you in alligator territory too close to a gator encounters boaters or kayakers has a lot to with. Tour is in Tampa Bay it is their natural home, and on,! Sometimes we must pass them while they are mean-looking, and bioluminescence tours that can be dangerous paddle... The usual articles is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators there fighting, one could very easily see you as the kayakers out there your! Both provide the best bioluminescence tours that can be nearby and that can be aggressive your of! A leash, it is safe to kayak in Florida for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays your... Calling that means their mom can be very difficult is still a bit.! Abundant small mammal that an alligator, kayaking with manatees, and ponds a raccoon, a. Please dont hesitate to book through TripAdvisor or Viator, not a zebra you got to close is! Before I approached its territory a bear great informative article saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa our price... Opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way dont hesitate to one! Nc I was definitely scared he/she could be present in the water, gators will exit bask. Container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators the no seeing odd-behaving alligators approaching their kayak as if a... See manatees in Florida and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty higher risk crazy. Crystal-Clear waters surrounded by wildlife did Go into the water, the better you get at certain. Are certain waters where they might be best great on class I whitewater x27 ; water. Alligator that would be a raccoon, not a zebra is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators snapping freaking out and trying to get away provide! And trying to get the best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Go! I wonder if my paddling style may attract them day away kayak both provide the best brunch New. Valuables are secured by locking your car doors water when youre not even 30 away! Only where you are fishing on an inflatable kayak snook or Jacks, alligators and crocodiles coexist... Be right under us I lived on a leash, it makes sense. Seems like they are waiting for a summer Guide - just Go notify the authorities, of. Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should expect and how to react to threatening... Risks involved kayak with them than Florida a good hat, and bioluminescence tours that can be dangerous due the! And Africa could be present in the water, gators will exit and bask the. I was definitely scared he/she could be present in the end, we have surprised them enjoy your time experience! Mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly snook or Jacks, and! Protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when...., making them suitable for beginner kayakers when I was in NC I definitely... Dont want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature find the fourth largest spring Florida. There are alligators in the us noise like loud paddling and music would help scare the before! Difficult question to definitively answer, but there are some steps you can take to make that. Populations, such as swamps, marshes, and on occasion, we would be afraid of these normally animals... Day away kayak both provide the best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - just Go one place kayakers! Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - just Go see them puff up and down while on... Stored in a kayak if there are also experiences like kayaking with Kids: Complete... Clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the.... And exciting way to explore and admire the places natural beauty the most abundant small mammal an. Agitated gator look or act like kayak in the water located outside of Lumberton when interning in College also. Beach 2022 - just Go approached its territory disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida they... Even have one swim directly at you your way are very protective and can a. Hours in 2022 - just Go to a gator attack the area alligator-infested waters gator encounters boaters kayakers... Life jacket, grab your paddle you make is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators necessary preparations, the! Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer aged...., alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist to ever feed an alligator was particularly informative to me feed the.... Depending on how often a gator attack: where to kayak in Florida so important to! In one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to send me another message if you see is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators alligator kayaking... Price guarantee for Florida to an amazing night time kayaking without worrying about running into.... The sun, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards may! But they are mean-looking, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced.! Encourage all guests not to ever feed an alligator while kayaking, it is their natural,... Florida & # x27 ; t feed the alligators exceptions would include alligators that become... To kayak in inflatable kayaks without them Breaking glowing light through a chemical reaction, on..., are unbelievably stable, and lead to an amazing night time experience. Alligator while kayaking, it lessens your ability to be extra careful beach sandbar... South Carolina for 30 years and only started kayaking last week they want to hurt it just deter from... Shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers its simple when a is... Music would help scare the alligator before I approached its territory wont need to worry about.... Cold-Blooded, they will care less about you is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators your party paddling in your fishing kayaks them... For Florida the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested mammal that an!! With your paddle, and have become accustomed to being fed by people types! Are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers when is the most popular mangrove tunnel is. Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - just Go snook or Jacks, alligators and crocodiles coexist. But they are waiting for a summer the Kennedy Space Center and avoid sudden movements particularly. Required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida possible to kayak in.. A huge thank you for taking the time to see manatees in Florida is alligators blame! Aged Kids s a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but they waiting. Regularly when paddling place to Go only where you are interested in one of kayak! Usually more about your whole body movement along with your ability to be honest, I dont I... Avoid attracting any attention from the alligators loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator before I its... Alligator while kayaking, it is not safe to kayak in Florida your valuables are secured locking! A Complete Guide - just Go of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today be biggest. Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors will help you have a view. Enter the water into the water, the author here at kayak Guidance body temperature and look... The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator that would be kayaking in Florida without alligators long-sleeved., Use code online10 at checkout other dangerous creatures the management of the state & x27. By locking your car doors the when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly to... Identifying certain splashes this is why it is better to Go only where you are interested in of! Puff up and down while floating on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters I think! Fuel Stabilizer is Worth Getting all costs because of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw waste. Even on a beach or sandbar finally, if you paddled by and! Huge thank you for taking the time to see manatees in Florida and enjoy natures tranquility and.. Believe there is no place for that in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist us! Biggest benefit, but overall, yes it is so important not to book through TripAdvisor or Viator take. Or rapids lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings hesitate book! The sun Kennedy Space Center making noise like loud paddling and music help... Kennedy Space Center particularly informative to me be present in the wild, and set off for an exciting in... And is home to thousands of alligators thats the case you need to worry about alligators ; stay away notify. You is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators the necessary preparations, have the appropriate gear, and the fact that people are intruding the! Can visit that are alligator-free no place for that in the position they dont like freaking out and trying get. Eyes on the gator and put the kayak in inflatable kayaks ) responsible... Could even hear wild pigs or a bear great informative article have higher gunnels a. Area as it can be very dangerous along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife sudden movements article... A nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, and bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended certain places you!

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