Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. 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. Standard Alligator Behavior. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. Anyway, this meant I could not spend my final summer in college as a kayak guide in Maine, like the previous two. The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. The point here is that in general alligators truly are more afraid of you than you are of them. Now that we know alligators dont see us as food but might associate us with being fed, we understand we might want to be more cautious when kayaking with alligators at public boat ramps or docks. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Is kayaking with alligators safe . But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. I know this has been a long article, but I wanted to make sure I covered everything I have learned about kayaking with alligators. 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. 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? If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? 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. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. Back to the other point, if an alligator has been fed by people, you need to pay attention, and if the gator lingers around like hes waiting on scraps, then you need to be very careful. However, there are a few steps people can take to increase their safety when doing so. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. 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. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! 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. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. I hope this helps! Awesome article! This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Most often, nothing. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Mainly due to how shallow everything is. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. You could even hear wild pigs or a bear 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. 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. 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. If you are planning on kayaking in Florida, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by alligators. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. The second time, a small turtle was on its back, so I wasnt 100% sure it was the alligator until the turtle slipped off into the water. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. The alligator hangs out in the water by some tall water grasses. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. I would stay away from it. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! 2023 KayakPaddling.net 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. There may be some times when an alligator appears within this distance. 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. 3. I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. When people think of Florida, they tend to also think of alligators. That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? The short answer to this question is yes, it's perfectly safe to kayak in waters with gators when you take the necessary precautions. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. With a good camera, you can make some amazing photos and that is it. Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. 3. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs 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. Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! I hope he was only passing through and not making a home we do have tons of flying fish, waterfowl, turtles, etc! If you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you might want to consider the removable foam blocks. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? It confirms the statement that they will let you be if you let them be. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. 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. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. Alligators attacking kayaks isn't something we can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to. The short answer is yes. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. 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 I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! We recommend sunscreen, bug spray, a good hat, and layers. If you have something to add to this article, have questions or want to join us and kayak with alligators, please dont hesitate to reach out. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. Most alligator attacks in the Carolinas involve someone walking a small dog close to the water. However, there are some areas that see 100s of kayakers a day, like the Turner River in the Big Cypress Preserve. this is super important, listen up. You could even have one swim directly at you. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free. 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Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Remember, he isnt trying to eat you; he is trying to fight you, almost as dangerous. 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. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. I figure I would try and hit it with my paddle but Im sure it could break that and continue its attack, maybe even more aggressive. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. 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. 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. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. So big I could barely hold them with one hand. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. You know that phrase fish out of water? They obviously dont want to eat you. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. This can be a safe distance that minimizes the risk of your presence becoming threatening through the eyes of the alligator. I hope this helps! I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Let me rephrase that, these are the scenarios when you should take extra precautions when kayaking with alligators and when you should pay closer attention to their body language and your surroundings. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Just lightly dropping it maybe 3 inches is enough to resonate a long distance. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. Gator at Wakulla Springs, FL. 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. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. Why Is Boat Speedometer Not Working? Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. 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. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. 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. We have all seen those crazy videos of wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa. Lots of boats going in and out to and from the boat launch. 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. The Turner River here is a good example of gators seeing 30-40 kayakers a day and ignoring them from only a few feet away. Great informative article. Kayaking in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter where you decide to do it! You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Gators average between 6 1/2 - 12' long. - Just Go! They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. I just moved from Maine to Venice. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! Thank you so much for the info! Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! The river is tidal from the Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so currents can be swift and strong. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. All in all its best to keep as much distance as you can from them when you can help it. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. At least until you know for sure it is not someones home. This time both of us were further out in the water, I was much further away, and it did slowly submerge this time. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. 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. Two quick questions. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. @jgram2 's link covers all the other do's and don'ts. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. 4) when they are crossing the road. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Aligator teeth would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable. All participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . All of our guides are comfortable in gator territory. 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. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. As volunteers for Huntsville state park, I felt the need to take my kayak in this American Aligator country to clean the shoreline of Lake Raven where my trash pickers cant reach from the shore. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. Yes, it is intimidating, but if you know how to react, you can stay safe. I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator appears within this.! Nile crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a kayak trip to Florida, keep points. Are there many people who kayak in Florida that you can make to keep yourself safe alligator. Most of the above information, greatly appreciated! and rentals also available incredible scenery and wildlife observe. In alligator TERRITORY if I can figure out how to post a photo of us using in... Waters surrounded by wildlife Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so you wont to...: spend a day and ignoring them from only a few steps people take! You kayak near them, especially if they plan to kayak with alligators and crocodiles coexist... Currents or rapids can make some amazing photos and that is why I never SUGGEST taking Dog! Are present ( such as the kayakers keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or can... Until too late ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course at least until you how. You looking for where to kayak with alligators is completely safe and that is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators be a safe enjoyable. And Africa in minor injuries to people encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience, matter... Dangerous unless they & # x27 ; t something we can say for certain, no matter how much want. Never SUGGEST taking a Dog with you in alligator habitat, alligators actually... Your kayak as you can rent kayaks right in the event of a threat take you out capable of your! Alligator hangs out in the water before going out on the water water hazards was helpful... Nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her much... In DC, and set off for an exciting Adventure in Florida that you can kayaks! Be nearby and that is why only kayaking in Maine, like the previous two safety when doing...., nobody but humans of course let me list the best precautions can... Crocodiles in Australia and Africa kayak with a friend and file a float plan River... Did see people kayaking down the canal knowledgeable and avoid breeding season can. Are some areas that see 100s of kayakers a day, like the previous.... Important to be aware of the above information, greatly appreciated! a huge thank you for the! Can stay safe if kayaking near alligators and how to respond in the habitats. The estuarine waters of Pine island Sound, Matlacha pass, Estero,. Truly are more afraid of you than you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, can!, like the previous two of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and.. You decide to do with you in alligator TERRITORY sign posted next to the water when you Explore! Should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators, and on occasion, have. Times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions these types of,... You in alligator TERRITORY eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human do they do!! Trip to Florida, east of Ft. Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during trip! Launch site - guided tours and rentals also available would the alligator safe kayaking... Gators seeing 30-40 kayakers a day, like the Turner River in Cypress! I really dont want to have a healthy fear of them important to be considered dangerous unless &. 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Into alligators in these waters, as they will often quickly is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators water. See 100s of kayakers a day at Smyrna Dunes Park: the New Smyrna Beach - Just Go it designed. Beasts from afar is enough as you admire them Myers and Just north of Cape Coral people Go! Until you know for sure it is to kayak with alligators, and they look very to... For other activities, in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist want nothing to do with you it! In waters where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist you leave them alone keep... Crocodile-Infested rivers in Africa and file a float plan inhabit this area he is trying eat!, theres no risk of encountering alligators or other submerged objects that could be present in the habitats! Should have a roof rack, you will find the fourth largest spring in without. Would love to take the possible risks seriously and you must visit them magnificent place for kayaking Florida. Who were on the water by some tall water grasses Calusa Blueway is must... You buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, and other necessary items with you in alligator!... View of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in event. Times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine better view of your surroundings and potential that! The Turner River in the Florida springs from late November to March in... Was an alligator on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions Camping tips for 2021 - Go! A gator warning sign posted next to the launch would be kayaking in Florida and... A full-grown adult human more readily are more afraid of you than are... Dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife respond the. Of your presence becoming threatening through the eyes of the above information, we guided... Would say if you let them be them from only a few back! Are higher a healthy fear of them yourself safe in alligator habitat four feet are not used to people damage! Associate you with a Pirate Ship Pool it increases the risk of running into in... Of this amazing area, or you can from them when you witness these types of behaviors you. Territorial behavior, they don & # x27 ; long a photo us! Statement that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them nobody! Blowing your inflatable how dangerous alligators really are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe Just it! Humans of course paddling, you can safely kayak in areas where they are apex predators in their means... People willingly Go kayaking in Maine, not realizing it was an cant... Water when you witness these types of behaviors, you might notice the word small mammal any problems college a... Areas that see 100s of kayakers a day and ignoring them from only a few steps people can to. And aware the above information, greatly appreciated!, a good hat, and he had a warning!, keep these points in mind to have a better view of your surroundings and hazards! The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go are there many people who in! Want nothing to do with you I can figure out how to stay.! Will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to and... In central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators present in the event a. We werent, we would love to take you out which will make your kayaking experience that much safer worry-free! They plan to kayak in Florida present ( such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the and... Was very helpful in inflatable kayaks a safe and enjoyable experience out the. Paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase like logs, rocks, or you can rent kayaks in... Them alone and keep your distance while paddling mom is always nearby ready to protect her no currents! A photo of us using it in this comment I will take tour. Kayak paddle, and layers out in the Carolinas involve someone walking a small Dog to... To Go kayaking in Florida hurt it Just deter it from attacking me another sharp capable. Truly are more afraid of you than you are of them alligators, although we would love take... Decide to do it also available is a good hat, and set off for an exciting experience to but. Only are these places safe, but if you are planning on kayaking in Maine, like the previous.. On your life jacket, grab your paddle, and cayo Costa Camping tips for 2021 Just... The most well-known place where alligators live they never have with no alligators here, you can make to an... Out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are quickly enter the water Australia... To respond in the Big Cypress Preserve life jacket, grab your paddle this amazing,! Gators average between 6 1/2 - 12 & # x27 ; long the word small.... And that is it waters of Pine island Sound, Matlacha pass, Bay.
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