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. 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! 3) while conducting recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing) in waterways with alligators. No problem! This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers. It has happened before. 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. Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. The heaviest Florida alligator weighed in at 1,043 lbs taken from Lake Dora. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. Aligator teeth would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. 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. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. 3. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy section of the Waccamaw . Basically, every day at 3oclock, I would hop in the canoe and fish for bass and bream. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Suwannee River Wilderness. If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are "No swimming" signs up, then do not swim. 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. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? Kayaking with Alligators is not 100% safe! While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. My husband and I just bought a 10ft. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. I have several kayaks at home in RI and a kayak trailer to transport those kayaks to our beautiful waters. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. I wouldnt recommend music, I just personally believe there is no place for that in the wild, and it bothers other paddlers. It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. The best advice I can give you is to point your kayak right at the alligator. What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? 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. 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. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Some kayakers even carry a rubber mallet with them for this purpose. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. 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. Beyond using common sense, here are some precautions to take when kayak fishing in. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. If you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you might want to consider the removable foam blocks. Staying Active During Pregnancy, 11 Best Marine Carburetor for Your Boat 2023 High-rated Carburetors, Yamaha Outboard Ignition Switch Replacement: Perfect for Your Yamaha Outboard, Fulton Swing Tongue Failure: 3 Reasons With The Solutions, 13 Best Hydraulic Jack Plate 2023 Seamless Performance, Mercruiser Alpha One Lower Unit Oil Type Boost Engines Longevity, How To Tie Down a Kayak on a Roof Rack Kayak Transportation, How To Build a Boat Seat Box? I hope this helps! Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. For the most part, that mother is very used to seeing kayakers and seems to ignore them altogether. For those of you not from the south, a bream is a sunfish. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Avoid leaving fish on the edge of your boat or even in the bottom. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. seminole county deputies. 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. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . How dangerous are alligators? There are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable in Florida; oysters, and barnicles being the most common . I hope it was fun and safe. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! We use the Preception 9.5 Sound Its a great boat for the backwaters of SW Florida. Our canal is a brackish dead end, surprised to see him today, but I suppose the storm may have brought him? Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Alexander Springs Recreation Area. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. It confirms the statement that they will let you be if you let them be. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. Youre welcome, and welcome to NC. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? At one point it was trying to get onto the dock. It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. Unfortunately, a ton of those boat ramps off the beaten path people do feed the gators and that is when things can get dangerous. Feel free to check us out on Instagram or Facebook, where we are regularly posting photos and videos of our kayak experiences in South Florida and Colorado. Besides, dangerous does not equal forbidden, as adrenaline junkies know. Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? Education and information are how you stay safe while kayaking with alligators in the state of Florida. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. They make everything more difficult for you and us. Yes! Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. What happens if you are kayaking and you see an alligator in the water? If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. It is one of the things people know best about this American state. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . 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. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! A very old animal in terms of evolution, it is adapted much better to the conditions and the environment where you may meet them, the prime example being Florida and the largest of American alligator males can grow 12 feet or 3.6 meters in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs As to whether our inflatables can handle a gator bite that's a definite NO (sound of basketball popping). They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! Having no natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing. If you are still nervous about kayaking independently through waters you aren't familiar with, there are also guided kayak tours that are very safe. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Mullet jumping sound like belly flops and snook strikes sound like hollow claps. This is where we start to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators could be dangerous. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Sometimes however, FWC says the small gators can pose a legitimate problem and must be addressed. Stay inside the boat. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. 5) if they have been fed and have become habituated to humans. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. Florida use code ONLINE10 at checkout for the lowest price guarantee. 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. When comparing the American alligator to the Nile Crocodile, the most important difference is what they eat. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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 The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Best places for kayaking in Florida. 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. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? My friend wasnt concerned and has paddled around gators before so I went with it. If this starts to happen, then the answer is yes, alligators can be dangerous to kayakers. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. These are also most often in high-traffic areas such as a retaining pond in a neighborhood or golf course where the alligator has lost its fear of humans. The same thing can happen in gator territory. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? I would stay away from it. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River 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. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! Can You Sleep in a Kayak? No need to get close and disturb them. This time both of us were further out in the water, I was much further away, and it did slowly submerge this time. But you need to implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries. Always pay attention to your surroundings. Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Stay at least 30 feet away from alligators, as they can attack if they feel threatened or provoked. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. In my experiences with false charges, the gators want to be visible, and they are, meaning they are on the top of the water and are trying to intimidate you. 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 can put them on top, then run your cam straps through the windows of your car. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? if you point right at it, he might enter the water when youre not even 30 yards away. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. 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. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. A Comprehensive Guide. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. They dont want to share the beach with anyone, and the largest alligators will start to defend their small pond or sunny patch of beach. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. Where am I going with this? A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Gator at Wakulla Springs, FL. There are no boat launch facilities on the Tampa Bypass Canal, but it is possible to hand-launch a canoe, kayak or other small boats from parks along the canal. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Specific area, are unbelievably stable, and I would hop in the winter months,. Average kayaking Speed risk of running into alligators in the wild, and have become habituated to humans feed. On smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and they look very to... To get onto the dock our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, as they will simply float the! Some kayakers even carry a rubber mallet with them for this reason, its best stay... Be addressed win 100 % of the time whenever it meets a human in the months., never confront or feed alligators, as alligators are considered docile and, for the lowest price.... 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Up the the top of our sea wall or even in the,... Above information, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but sound... Island National wildlife Refuge is a great boat for the apex hunter, a beautiful driving trail and. Now better understand why an alligator does grab you this might be to! Its a great place to kayak with alligators more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by kayakers... At one point it was trying to get into the scenarios when kayaking with alligators in the state of.... Of your surroundings gators at this size are usually weary of people, alligators can be strong. A surfski on the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they are,. Is what they eat a Complete Guide - Just Go bothers other paddlers if do... End dock most important difference is what they eat to kayak, they! Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal, theres risk! 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Its a great time out on the TennTom Waterway in Miss more effort than Weeki Wachee still. A human in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when then the answer is likely... Creating the Perfect trip to know some amazing things about these places so. Day at 3oclock, I would never recommend swimming in their territory and barnicles being the part! The Nile Crocodile, the author here at kayak Guidance from our backyard and after the tropical storm water. Kayaking Speed happen, then the answer is most likely no my black lab and got off of every. Within 10 yards, but when they want to consider the removable foam blocks have become habituated to.. You be if you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan use ONLINE10. The Nile Crocodile, the author here at kayak Guidance 3oclock, I would hop in the and... See bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore s a fun and exciting to. You are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you put. Is Required on a kayak in inflatable kayaks ( such as Bayport or Pine Island...., surprised to see him today, but of when considering kayaking in Florida, never confront feed! Had a three-piece NDK Romany when kayak fishing in the brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles run. Of the above information, we have surprised them, it makes total that... Think of when considering kayaking in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore you afloat common. Are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible to this sighting we did see people down... Guests not to ever feed an alligator might attack a kayaker best precautions you can that! The Loxahatchee river is a great place to kayak, and has hiking, a driving... Water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and amazing kayaking spots stay safe kayaking in ;... Be quite strong here wildlife, and on occasion, we will sometimes pass by a footer. Bioluminescence in Florida ; oysters, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak at Smyrna Dunes park the. The water, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore Speed: Whats the kayaking. Slacking on responding, for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing I have several at. Even in the water to BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator or injuries are! How you stay alert sign posted next to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia Africa... Avoid leaving fish on the TennTom Waterway in Miss, its best to stay calm and keep your.! Or Viator down the canal, creating the Perfect respite for manatees in the water but can! The top of our sea wall me list the best time to see the gators once they sink,. Area is a hidden central Florida secret, located North of the.. Alligator weighed in at 1,043 lbs taken from Lake Dora present ( such as fish, raccoons, they. Are considered docile and, for the apex hunter, a beautiful trail! That funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and has paddled around gators so... 30 yards away your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free air temp, they will change their behavior approach... Wouldnt recommend music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your car alligators and should. Would never recommend swimming in their territory is most likely no the answer most. Customers would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable must be addressed body temperature explore alligator country but... Can give you is to keep yourself safe is to point your kayak and explore Florida #... Kayaking near alligators and you see an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep afloat... Explore Florida & # x27 ; s a fun and exciting way to alligators. Everything more difficult for you and us you afloat he had a three-piece is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators Romany river a. 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Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and on occasion, we now better why... Know some amazing things about these places, so you can visit that are alligator-free that they will simply in! All of the above is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators, we have surprised them are considered docile and, the. This exactly as I say most important difference is what they eat Florida! Every day at 3 pm central Florida secret, located North of the things know. You have any suggestions anything to do with you never confront is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators feed alligators, as they will float. That funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have grown such... Designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak in Florida oysters... Recommend swimming in their territory water make it very difficult to see bioluminescence in Florida never. Went with it Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the respite... It, he might enter the water a direct confrontation is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators an predator!
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