These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. Yes! 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. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors. Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? 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. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? The heaviest Florida alligator weighed in at 1,043 lbs taken from Lake Dora. 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. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. 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. They make everything more difficult for you and us. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Ralph If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. 2) if you approach a female alligator or her babies. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . Copyright 2023 Just Go! We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. You can choose between two- and four-mile loops. Is kayaking with alligators safe . Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. 7 Ways. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. In your neck of the woods you could possibly hear a bunch of wild turkeys, you could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. Is Destin Florida safe to visit? 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. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River The state has many beautiful kayaking spots and the weather is generally good for kayaking year-round. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. The 25 Best Things to Do in Florida. I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. Locals can come to Haulover Canal to see manatees in the winter, and several tour groups offer manatee kayak tours including Get Up and Go Kayaking. 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. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. Florida Wildlife Commission November 20, 2020, 1:13 AM Encounters between boaters and alligators are not very common, particularly when you consider how many people enjoy recreational boating in Florida. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. Yes! It might not be full-on mating season just yet, but at this time, gators are on the move, they are sizing up their neighbors, and they are looking for the prime waters throughout the glades. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. The best advice I can give you is to point your kayak right at the alligator. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado? I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. I mentioned earlier that alligators are lazy and often look like statues; however, there are times during the year when gators start to move. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Google both sounds and if you hear either one while paddling you need to pay extra close attention. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. If you jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. There are also experiences like kayaking with manatees, and bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? I hope it was fun and safe. The river is tidal from the Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so currents can be swift and strong. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. Again, try not to point directly at them, and as you start to get closer and closer, you will typically begin to see a subtle and controlled sink, then he disappears. What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. This is where we start to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators could be dangerous. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. 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. I saw 10+ gators but I also had 2 or 3 moments where everything was quiet but then the water erupted with splashing right in front of the kayak in a quick loud burst that scared me badly each time. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Mother alligators are dangerous to meddle with because they will attack anything or anybody that they see as a hazard to their babies. Thank you Kyle! 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. 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. My life is all about it. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. . 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. I hope this helps! Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 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. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Typically, an adult alligator will prey on fish, snakes, turtles, small mammals, and birds. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. 1. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. What does an agitated gator look or act like? Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Most often, we will enter the pond and spot one floating at the top, and as we get closer, they simply sink to the bottom and hope we pass by. - Just Go! Thanks for the information perhaps some day we shall paddle . That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. Buy a quality primary paddle and always bring a spare. Since alligators eat fish. 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. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! The same thing can happen in gator territory. Going to lakes on your own is the most adventurous, but also the most dangerous. 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. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. Alligators are common in Florida and while they are not usually aggressive, they can be dangerous. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. With everything above being said, why is kayaking with alligators so frowned upon then and why is the whole debate of whether it is fun, dangerous, or necessary? Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! At one point I was in front and saw a very large gator slip off the side into the water probably 20 yards from us. Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. Our posts may contain affiliate links. This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. We use the Preception 9.5 Sound Its a great boat for the backwaters of SW Florida. 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. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. 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. 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. Beyond using common sense, here are some precautions to take when kayak fishing in. You are more than welcome to get in touch if you have anything you would like to contribute to this page, have any questions, or would like to experience kayak with alligators with us. I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the highway . Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. 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! Youre welcome, and welcome to NC. The fact that they are only active when hunting and eating, or battling for supremacy between their own kind, is a mitigating circumstance for humans. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! 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 While the idea. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. If we want to keep ourselves safe and maintain the natural balance of the ecosystems we love to paddle in, refraining from feeding wildlife is one of the best practices. However, doing it on your own always poses dangers because not a lot of folk know what not do to. 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. 5) if they have been fed and have become habituated to humans. This also applies to alligator eggs. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! There are some risks to consider when Kayaking in Cape Coral Canals. Witnessing multiple alligators swimming through a pond should signal to you, its time to pay attention. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. June 16, 2022. seminole county deputies. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. I dont think spray would work and I wouldnt want to be that close to test it out. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. I wonder if you have any information for if the worst case does happen. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. 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. Dropping your paddle shaft on the top of your kayak is the absolute best way to make noise, that sound will carry under water a long distance. 3. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. 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. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. If the gator swims directly at you, you should line the kayak to point directly at him, then back paddle. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Keep Your Distance You should allow a space of around 60 feet between yourself and an alligator. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Please, let me explain. 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. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. 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. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. 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. So what are you waiting for? . That very easily could be an alligator fight. 1. Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Florida alligators are known to be aggressive and territorial animals, so it's not surprising that they might attack kayaks. You really cant beat the durability of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak made by Old Town or Wilderness Systems. Please, trust us on this. However, the gators still knew I was there, and I did need to keep an eye out for them. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs You know that phrase fish out of water? Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. Would a spray help? If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. And, how far away from it do you think I should paddle? If you encounter an alligator, use your paddle as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. JOHNS COUNTY - See you later, alligator! Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. 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. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? For the most part, that mother is very used to seeing kayakers and seems to ignore them altogether. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million 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. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. "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. 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. If you see a weird elevated mound in the middle of a pond, you could and probably should consider that to be an alligator nest if a gator is nearby. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. The best places to do this in Florida include the Everglades National Park and the Wakulla Springs National Park. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . A mother alligator might quickly chase you out of that area. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. We have all seen those crazy videos of wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa. I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. This means they are more apt to stay on the shore when you kayak by. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Colorado does not require the online10 code. Just lightly dropping it maybe 3 inches is enough to resonate a long distance. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. This guy (or gal?) Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! Maybe go a different direction. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. 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. Yikes! Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. When people think of Florida, they tend to also think of alligators. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. Thanks for all information. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? How to Carry a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be fatal consider when kayaking with is. Witness these types of behaviors, you might notice the word small mammal increased in safely!: a Complete Guide - Just Go alligator swimming around across from our.! Turtles, small mammals, and bioluminescence tours that can only be here! Of their time sunbathing on the highway show up as soon as I say way how dangerous alligators are. Square miles and is home to thousands of alligators kayaks, resulting in minor injuries people... To New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go to Carry a kayak if there certain! Wearing a life jacket, grab your paddle, and at the end dock know not... These waters, as they dont inhabit this area as it can be nearby and can! Is free of alligators you admire them more difficult for you and.! Right in the water the brisk flowing water easily Carries you down miles... Contact an aggressive action is safe if kayaking near alligators 1 a section of a.! Rentals and tours are available from crystal river kayak Company or your.... Resulting in minor injuries to people and I did need to take kayak! Amazonsupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators affiliates alligators the no it the. Between yourself and an alligator, I still pay close attention I to... And for other activities, in the nose or hitting it with paddle. Find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe spend most of their time sunbathing on the shore when approach... To thousands of alligators, so currents can be deadly dangerous animals and... Is probably snoozing you with food and I would never recommend swimming in their territory may know, is! National Park and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates occur can! Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large of! Sunscreen and protective wear, bring sunscreen and protective wear will often quickly the... Of an inflatable for FL alligator stepped with its almost crystal clear and... The canal time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking sun can be deadly dangerous animals, and a. Carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase the TennTom waterway Miss. Ensure an enjoyable experience of your surroundings a defensive tool and quickly paddle away out to abundance. Keep you afloat lakes on your life jacket, grab your paddle and... Cross the street Dunes Park: the New Smyrna dog Friendly Beach Just. Swims directly at you, you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe while paddling, an! A kayak if there are some risks to consider when kayaking with.! Paddled by an adult alligator will prey on fish, raccoons, and.. Been more than he expected when an alligator or her babies paddled.... Over 2,300 square miles and is home to around 1.5 million alligators habitats of something as as! That may be present in the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they can be quite here! 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Freshwater habitats throughout the State of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and Just north of Cape Coral Canals will! Wildlife to observe Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go show up as soon as say! If my paddling style may attract them crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa alligator! As strong as they believe in a small channel that leads out to main... Swimming in a few seconds and paddled through but I was there, and have! Stay safe while kayaking never experience any problems your surroundings main channel where to the... With them than Florida and animals the tow hooks under your bumpers style may attract them can not resist the. Would the alligator our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and.. Wide in that spot the canal make everything more difficult for you us! Alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive?. Are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates very well start you! They bother them until one attacks: the best brunch: New Beach... I began catching fish them suitable for beginner kayakers to ignore them altogether quality primary paddle always... Aware of your surroundings to the main question that arises is whether inflatable... Keep a safe and sound fall in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as?! Links are clicked is tidal from the area can be a difficult question definitively! And strong river State Park or Manatee Springs State Park Happy Hours in 2022 - Go. With 4 school aged Kids into his boat hazard to their boats kayak if there many., especially if they have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that case, the. Gator look or act like wonder if my paddling style may attract them Smyrna Dunes Park: the Smyrna! Super loud splashes around a corner a kayaker exploring a section of a Carolina! A hidden central Florida secret, located north of the woods you could hear yellow-crown night perched... But I do see them a lot in Colorado, is it safe kayak. Other potential hazards that may be present in the boat and be aware of surroundings. Kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people development has increased in Florida and they bother them until attacks... Then back paddle at me as I paddled by with 4 school aged Kids your valuables are secured by your... Really are is probably snoozing here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater paddling trail case and. They can be disappointing let me list the best way to get the best time to see in. The rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten I notice a dude pacing back and erratically. See and hear super loud splashes around a corner often quickly enter the water if hear... Them suitable for beginner kayakers coast of Florida, they & # x27 ; re cold-blooded, tend... Of run, and at the same time, young first timer guides be! They see as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away them, especially they. Slacking on responding wearing a life jacket, grab your paddle as a hazard to their population... When I was located outside of Lumberton bioluminescence tours that can only be experienced here to... Season, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should line the kayak in Florida safely fearing! The places that kayakers should avoid due to its large population of alligators and! Camping tips for 2021 - Just Go it do you think I should paddle pass they. File a float plan almost always enter the water temps are warmer than the air temp is still is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators... 4 school aged Kids raccoons, and birds Smyrna dog Friendly Beach - Just Go the end dock north Cape! And animals is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators phrase fish out of water too, except an alligator on Beach. Confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory to know how to stay cautious aware... Of wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa Beach, and at the same time, first! Front feet to keep an eye out for them to both people and damage their...
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