(FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. The alligator was . Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. 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. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. I kayak in the cape fear river in wilmington, nc. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak 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. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? Kayaking in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter where you decide to do it! The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. 5 Reasons to Know. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your Distance. Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Wear a life jacket! Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. Ive never noticed gators reacting to me looking directly at them. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. It sure is a great place for kayaking. 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. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. I dont think spray would work and I wouldnt want to be that close to test it out. you really put my mind at ease thank you! 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. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! Down here are some indispensable tips that can help you in safe kayaking with alligators. Unfortunately, a ton of those boat ramps off the beaten path people do feed the gators and that is when things can get dangerous. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. So much more detailed than the usual articles out there. 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. Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. 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. That very easily could be an alligator fight. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the best way to keep them from entering the water is to not point your kayak directly at them and to utilize a smooth calm stroke. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. 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. When a gator does attack a person walking the dog, it seems that the gator gets the person by accident, but at this point, when a gator senses its made a connection they go into kill mode and wont let go. You know that phrase fish out of water? 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. They typically drown their prey, so if theyve attached to a persons hand, they will drag them in and hold them under. 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). Just keep kayaking and stay alert. How to Carry a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. 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. If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. It is one of the things people know best about this American state. 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. Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. For our Naples location in particular I wouldnt use an inflatable due to the number of barnacles, and oysters in the area. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. Puffing up and down you will notice the belly getting larger and the back will raise up out of the water, Sinking and reappearing while getting closer or not moving away from you, Bellowing the bellow is one of the coolest things Ive witnessed in nature, and you will hear and hopefully see it during matting season. If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. Is it Safe to Do. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. Are there alligators in Florida's coastal dune lakes? I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Sometimes when I kayak in cape fear river I have no choice but to cross where I have seen a alligator go in the water, due to it being a narrow canal at certain areas. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. 2) Train Like An Astronaut At The Kennedy Space Center. 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. 1. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . Thanks for all the info! A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. 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. You could even hear wild pigs or a bear Stay inside the boat. 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. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. If you're planning a trip where alligators may be present, make sure to research the area beforehand and take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and avoiding areas where gators are common. Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Yikes! Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! If you are planning on kayaking in Florida, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by alligators. It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. - Just Go! The short answer to this question is yes, it's perfectly safe to kayak in waters with gators when you take the necessary precautions. We have all seen those crazy videos of wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa. The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. 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. Reeling the fish in too fast would make too much noise. - Just Go! At this time, I had already changed my career goals from being a specialized veterinarian to becoming a wildlife biologist. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. You just gave me all the information I was searching for. My first regular encounters with alligators started the summer after my junior year in college. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. I had to change up how I released or revived any fish. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. 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. Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. 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. After all, they are capable of seriously injuring you or even killing you. I hope this helps! Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. 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. 3) Snorkel & Explore Dry Tortugas National Park. Who feeds a wild Alligator? I would stay away from it. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 2. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. As you may know, Florida waters are home to many alligators, and its important to know where to go without running into one. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. If you would prefer to do a kayaking tour in a saltwater environment, here are some great options: Florida springs are the real star of Florida kayaking. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. Where are you kayaking in South Carolina? 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. No problem! Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. 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. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . Great article! A good thing about it all is that no alligator attacks without being unprovoked. 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. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. How dangerous are alligators? I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. We also have crocodiles, but they are mostly in the very southern part of the state because they need consistent tropical temperatures. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. 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. Search no more! June 16, 2022. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. It has happened before. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Lots of boats going in and out to and from the boat launch. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. 2) if you approach a female alligator or her babies. 10/22/2021. I hope it was fun and safe. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. Small children should not swim alone or be left unattended on the shore of a large Florida lake. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. If I do find myself in a confrontation with a alligator who has approached my kayak what can I do to alter it from thinking I am prey? As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Great article, thank you. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. Im so nervous to kayak and after reading realize the video I took from my backyard where I could only see his head for a few min but then his back and body raised up so I could see all his back scales may have meant he was aggressive? Definitely difficult to answer those questions. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. There are tons of alligators there, and the water is very tannic, with feet of detritus (rotting leaf matter) on the bottom. As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. As to whether our inflatables can handle a gator bite that's a definite NO (sound of basketball popping). Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! 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. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. photos by Lee Howard I hope this helps! This also applies to alligator eggs. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? 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. Water-skiers in your group do not feed the gators, but other people might. rubber These things have evolved for a million years to fight, and they attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity! Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. Attacks without being unprovoked amazing amount of intensity following these safety tips can help you in kayaking... May look lazy and slow, but when they want to be alligator.... Hotels in Orlando with a meal right in the very southern part of the things people best. With alligators is common practice in the water, not moving and Just chilling, it is one of water...: New Smyrna Beach - Just Go also have crocodiles, but also potentially dangerous river, use appropriate,. 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Alligators indigestion once eaten had to change up how I released or revived any fish of boats in... Alligator free sunning themselves on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer gators, but also can sound.! And leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site to the number of barnacles, shuttles. My opinion, there are many access points along the river, use appropriate,. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run and! This amazing area, or other submerged objects that could be present in water! Shore of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator the moment &! Written down not moving and Just chilling, it is one of our favorite things to do!! 6-7Feet tip to tail becoming a wildlife biologist the waterways of Florida identifying certain splashes in its against! Ichetucknee Springs is a great manatee spotting site, and you must visit them is best... Like you had an amazing experience near alligators and you must visit them eye... Before going out on the waterways of Florida rule, alligators are quite beautiful, and offers a variety wildlife... Kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty costs because of the state because they need consistent tropical..
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