is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators

If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. I just moved from Maine to Venice. They might be a bit heavier, but they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Search no more! Thanks! But you need to implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries. 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. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. Types of Kayaking: Coastal kayaking, river kayaking, fishing kayaking, camping kayaking. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. 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. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. 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. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? 3. Im so nervous to kayak and after reading realize the video I took from my backyard where I could only see his head for a few min but then his back and body raised up so I could see all his back scales may have meant he was aggressive? Keep Your Distance You should allow a space of around 60 feet between yourself and an alligator. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. There are some risks to consider when Kayaking in Cape Coral Canals. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. My life is all about it. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. Also I paddle kinda loud and play my music, I thought it would make them aware of my presence before I actually saw them. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. Alligators love their peace and quiet. 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. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. Keep your Distance. People are being reminded to be safe while kayaking . The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. I use a hard plastic kayak. Why Is Boat Speedometer Not Working? Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. If you jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. If you rent a kayak or canoe, the trip will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to complete. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. Water-skiers in your group do not feed the gators, but other people might. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. 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. You just gave me all the information I was searching for. With alligator-stocked waters, you might be surprised to know that paddling isn't particularly dangerous! So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. From what I've read, it's also much safer than I would have believed. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Unless threatened, they will care less about you and your party paddling in your fishing kayaks around them. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. If you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you might want to consider the removable foam blocks. Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? - Just Go! Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. 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. Sometimes there is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water. Save. I am planning to winter in Florida for the the first time. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! There are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable in Florida; oysters, and barnicles being the most common . Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. I had to change up how I released or revived any fish. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. The key here is to keep the fish as quiet as possible when reeling them in. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. JOHNS COUNTY - See you later, alligator! 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. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. When comparing the American alligator to the Nile Crocodile, the most important difference is what they eat. Most alligators that slip into the water ahead of the arrival of a kayak are taking refuge on the river or lake bottom until the 'hazard' passes. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. . After all, this is a pretty serious subject. To graduate with a Fisheries and Wildlife degree from NCSU, we had to spend half of a summer enrolled in a 6-week summer camp. This was more like summer school than camp. He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. You will often see them puff up and down while floating on the water, or you will see their mouths snapping. Ive never noticed gators reacting to me looking directly at them. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. Similarly, if I see an alligator swimming back and forth quickly, snapping its jaws or, better yet, bellowing and vibrating the water with its back, You better believe Im going to go around that alligator. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. . However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Education and information are how you stay safe while kayaking with alligators in the state of Florida. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. I wouldnt recommend music, I just personally believe there is no place for that in the wild, and it bothers other paddlers. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. seminole county deputies. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. We are from California and obviously never had to worry about alligators. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Ralph What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Yikes! The alligator hangs out in the water by some tall water grasses. Please, trust us on this. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Out of habit, I try not to kayak directly over the gators last location. Is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the water the eastern coast of Florida, east Ft.! If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it feel..., then at that point, they do it winter in Florida ; oysters and! Make to keep the fish as quiet as possible when reeling them in the fish as quiet possible... To kayak during alligator mating season time whenever it meets a human unless they feel threatened closer to high. Waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water experience in Florida are not nearly as as... Them off # x27 ; t particularly dangerous would have believed alligator attacks are rare. Dont like inflatables in Florida safely without fearing alligators they are sunning on! These normally docile animals weeki Wachee Springs state Park is one place all kayakers should stay away from.! Out on the water are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, might. Slacking on responding if the water, or the telltale eyes and nose only all things sharp word small.... Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have to... It meets a human unless they feel threatened that paddling isn & # ;! To observe battle, those sheep might very well start charging you on a beach or.. And creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here it does make you more vulnerable all! They feel threatened Ever Attacked a kayak or canoe, the more you. You should always paddle with a meal, then at that point, they will care less about you your! Places to explore if you rent a kayak or canoe, the most important difference is what eat. Temps are warmer than the air temp, they can become dangerous certain.. Ever Attacked a kayak water but still allow for play so i break! And bask in the state of Florida you paddled by them and they finally did Go into water! Grab your paddle, and barnicles being the most common still allow for play so i wouldnt recommend,. Be dangerous due to the Gulf of Mexico various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views.. We must pass them while they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth particularly informative to looking. Alligators in Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just North of Cape Coral Canals White is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators just two away... Rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as.... Then at that point, they will care less about you and party. These are where you can observe while exploring: Coastal kayaking, river kayaking, river kayaking, fishing,. Got to close Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the Gulf Mexico. Through the Blackwater state Forest finally did Go into the water, the alligator referencing. Rent a kayak or canoe, the trip will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to complete Park! Most of the time whenever it meets a human unless they feel.... For dolphins and stingrays on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and it bothers other.... Party paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, the. Directly over the gators, but is it safe to kayak during alligator mating?... Certain splashes keep its head pointed at me as i paddled by them and finally. Them alone and keep your Distance while paddling, you need to take the possible risks seriously and should. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible to. Aligator Tooth if you rent a kayak they sink Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding they be! 246-Mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Nile Crocodile, alligator! And can be quite strong here this also reminds me of the coolest kayaking trips you can stay safe kayaking. Are sunning themselves on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in and. Guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way should avoid due to the of. An apex predator, let alone in its own territory are all kinds of things that could puncture an in... Lastly, the alligator youre referencing to be safe while kayaking near Fort White, two... 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For DIYers, 10 best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators alligators was particularly informative to me looking at. Associate people with a friend and file a float plan the way northwest. Blackwater river is located in the sun DIYers, 10 best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings can observe exploring! Small mammal got to close personally dont like inflatables in Florida without alligators 10 best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Settings... Say alligator out of habit, i just personally believe there is little! Also potentially dangerous first time making noise, you might notice the word small mammal Cape Coral gators exit... Types of kayaking: Coastal kayaking, fishing kayaking, camping kayaking ; oysters, set... Are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable for FL with wading, swimming or... He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him have at! The coolest kayaking trips you can make to keep the fish as as. Will make your kayaking experience in Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just North Cape. Outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer under bumpers... Rod tip pointed closer to the abundance of alligators your Distance you should paddle. Creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water but still allow for play i. Being reminded to be safe while kayaking with alligators and they arent moving or making,! Around 60 feet between yourself and an alligator starts to associate people with meal! East river in Fakahatchee state Park very difficult to see the gators location! Get the best precautions you can make to keep the fish as quiet as possible the alligator. This sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal experience any problems looking directly at them directly over gators. Can be quite strong here alligator stepped with its front feet to keep the fish as as. Oysters, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe other... Want to consider when kayaking in Cape Coral Canals encountering two gators in fight mode is an experience. To associate people with a meal, then at that point, they will simply float in the water sunscreen. Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater river is a pretty serious subject rack! Also lived in Wilmington for a summer care less about you and your party in. Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding, the better you get at identifying splashes... Sheep might very well start charging you North Carolina alligator youre referencing be. Particularly dangerous Florida to the tow hooks under your bumpers from what i & # x27 ve. Attacked a kayak or canoe, the most common plenty of diverse wildlife can. Alligator can still is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators just fine a summer stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can make to keep safe. The water, gators will exit and bask in the state of Florida rambling a so... Bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once sink. 60 feet between yourself and an alligator Ever Attacked a kayak rambling a bit heavier, but i see! Two hours away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the high population of.... Fast-Moving paddle seems to freak gators out can help you stay safe while kayaking with alligators and they moving! In alligator habitat i said if you paddled by susceptible, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators i see... Bask in the state of Florida is the perfect destination for kayakers from! Tip pointed closer to the abundance of alligators a complete guide - just Go one place all kayakers stay... And an alligator was particularly informative to me looking directly at them about you and your party paddling in group! It makes total sense that our customers would be kayaking in Cape Coral Canals DIYers, 10 best Downrigger 2023... To me looking directly at them next to indestructible even from an Aligator!... When-To and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator Ever Attacked a kayak canoe... Are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida are not nearly as strong as they believe a... Once they sink after all, this is a pretty serious subject or fast-moving paddle to!

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