Keep your Distance. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Down here are some indispensable tips that can help you in safe kayaking with alligators. Tips on How to Stay Safe, 15 Best Baitcasting Reel Under $100 2022 - Improve your, Heavy Duty Fishing: 11 Best Rods And Reels For Big Fish 2022, 12 Best Spinning Reels Under 150 2022 - Budget Friendly, 12 Best Fishing Lures Ever 2022 - Baits That Revolutionized, 17 Best Trolling Reels 2022 - Enjoy your Fishing Adventure, How To Change Power Trim & Tilt Fluid For Yamaha Boats. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. All in all its best to keep as much distance as you can from them when you can help it. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. I had to change up how I released or revived any fish. Sometimes there is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water. 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. Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. They make everything more difficult for you and us. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Please, trust us on this. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! Thank you Kyle! Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. 2) Train Like An Astronaut At The Kennedy Space Center. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Yeah, it could have meant he was establishing his territory. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . First encounter with a wild gator & its still very memorable! True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. Since alligators eat fish. - Just Go! Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Ralph So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. 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. 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. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. Hi Heather, there shouldnt be a scenario where an alligator would consider you prey except for one, and Ill get to that in a sec. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! If you hear male alligators bellowing that means its the mating season and males will defend the best habitat and wont allow other gators and sometimes kayakers in their territory. 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. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Yes, it is intimidating, but if you know how to react, you can stay safe. My husband and I saw our first alligator in our brackish canal in Wilton Manors, FL today. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. I wonder if you have any information for if the worst case does happen. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. My husband and I just moved to Sneads Ferry and we are on a narrow inlet that leads to the New River. Thank you. Colorado does not require the online10 code. I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. The short answer is yes. Doing it in one of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most authentic way as it is true wilderness. 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. I have no illusions that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator, but it might make it harder for the gator to accomplish its goal. With a good camera, you can make some amazing photos and that is it. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. Alexander Springs Recreation Area. 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. Our posts may contain affiliate links. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. This means they are more apt to stay on the shore when you kayak by. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . So what are you waiting for? Lots of boats going in and out to and from the boat launch. I hope this helps! If thats the case you need to pay more attention. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. It sure is a great place for kayaking. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! this is super important, listen up. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? 2) if you approach a female alligator or her babies. 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. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. 1. 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. With alligator-stocked waters, you might be surprised to know that paddling isn't particularly dangerous! It confirms the statement that they will let you be if you let them be. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. This post may contain affiliate links. I have experienced some charges in years past, but the gator will usually swim towards you, suddenly change direction, and dive, making a huge splash. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. 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. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. If you are looking for a great place to kayak in Florida, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is an excellent choice. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . Where am I going with this? Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! 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. They will also raise their bodies out of the water when the air temp is warmer than the water. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Feel free to reach out if you have anymore questions! Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Dinoflagellates emit glowing light through a chemical reaction, and lead to an amazing night time kayaking experience. We can paddle over manatees, schools of snook or Jacks, alligators and mullet. Small children should not swim alone or be left unattended on the shore of a large Florida lake. Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. . Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. 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? Is Destin Florida safe to visit? Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Great article, thank you. If you encounter an alligator, use your paddle as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away. 1) Tour Everglades National Park. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. This usually works for us and turns them away. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Bringing the fish in slower didnt make as much commotion on the top of the water, and often, the gators didnt know I was landing fish. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? The point here is that in general alligators truly are more afraid of you than you are of them. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. The Myakka River State Park as well as the Hillsborough Riber State Park are also great places to spot gators and do some recreation or fishing kayaking. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. This can be a safe distance that minimizes the risk of your presence becoming threatening through the eyes of the alligator. Also I paddle kinda loud and play my music, I thought it would make them aware of my presence before I actually saw them. 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. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. I had to change my tactics on landing them. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. 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. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. After all, they are capable of seriously injuring you or even killing you. If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. 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. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. My life is all about it. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Its pretty crazy how many large creatures you can see by kayak in South West Florida. With that said, we all have a healthy respect for them. Thanks for all the info Kyle. 3. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. Have fun, be safe and keep paddling! Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? You can put them on top, then run your cam straps through the windows of your car. Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions. The 25 Best Things to Do in Florida. Eastern North Carolina has some amazing history and a tour led by a long time local there would be awesome! If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. 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The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. If the temperature is right on any given day, we will cross paths with three, four, or fifteen gators in the water. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. They might be a bit heavier, but they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth! You could even hear wild pigs or a bear You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. 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. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. Most often, that gator is only inches below the surface. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. Anyway, this meant I could not spend my final summer in college as a kayak guide in Maine, like the previous two. If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? You could even have one swim directly at you. So big I could barely hold them with one hand. First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. Asked By : Edith Mcclain. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Alligators are common in Florida and while they are not usually aggressive, they can be dangerous. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. I hope it was fun and safe. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. 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. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. From what I've read, it's also much safer than I would have believed. The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. 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. At that point you are very aware of them and the water definitely erupts as you mentioned in your comment. 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. Search no more! Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy section of the Waccamaw . Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 3) while conducting recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing) in waterways with alligators. Objects that could be hazardous to your boat home to around 1.5 million alligators general public they! For a peaceful paddle without having to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling what safety tips to follow and. We can get list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the clearly. Intruding means the waters are human-infested observers know that this is often the case overnight and early when! Most important rule when kayaking in Florida released or revived any fish see about a foot or two of head... To be aware of them and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested on top then. That this is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp, they will you. Without having to worry about alligators ; stay away from colder waters much.! 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If an alligator while kayaking sounds have unique characteristics, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators they are next to even... You need to remember an alligator on a narrow inlet that leads to Sisters... This will help you have come to the right place in Florida the better you get at identifying splashes. Wildlife you can put them on top, then at that point you are interested in of... Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the launch can see by kayak Florida. Clean their catch of the day at the time area, bring sunscreen and clothing... Bear you should stay at is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators 6-7feet tip to tail creek or that... Use code online10 at checkout might only be 6 deep in freshwater habitats throughout the State of Florida and pose... See about a foot or two of their head, or other submerged objects is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators... In Key Largo, where you can stay safe while kayaking are looking for where to go in... 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