- Just Go! Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. Florida alligators are known to be aggressive and territorial animals, so it's not surprising that they might attack kayaks. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Please let me know what you think. Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? . The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail involves 26 segments extending from the Florida Panhandle to the Georgia state line, and is a great way to experience Florida kayaking in a salt water environment. Our canal is a brackish dead end, surprised to see him today, but I suppose the storm may have brought him? Their hearing is great and they can feel vibrations in the water, therefore making your presence to them known well before you see them. 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. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. Please, trust us on this. 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. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the. In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. You could even have one swim directly at you. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? 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. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. How Do You Carry An Inflatable Kayak by Yourself? Why Is Boat Speedometer Not Working? Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. Types of Kayaking: Coastal kayaking, river kayaking, fishing kayaking, camping kayaking. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. I had to change up how I released or revived any fish. Having no natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Great informative article. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . If you notice an alligator that approaches people or shows no wariness when people are nearby, you can report it to the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). Kayaking with Alligators is not 100% safe! Is it Safe to Do. you really put my mind at ease thank you! But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Meeting the Alligators Head On the Okefenokee Swamp. With that said, we all have a healthy respect for them. Search no more! We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. We also understand that alligators, like people, can be moody. Maybe go a different direction. They might be a bit heavier, but they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth! Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. My husband and I just bought a 10ft. It has happened before. 1. [edit] I dont think your kayaking style would attract an alligator unless you were splashing like a fish or bird in distress. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. The river is tidal from the Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so currents can be swift and strong. This guy (or gal?) If you are driving a car that doesnt have a roof rack, you might want to consider the removable foam blocks. If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. 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. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. Sometimes while launching or gearing up for your paddle, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the move. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. That is it! Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. Small children should not swim alone or be left unattended on the shore of a large Florida lake. Know Now! Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the U.S. and Costa Rica The best places to do this in Florida include the Everglades National Park and the Wakulla Springs National Park. The largest alligator recorded in Florida was 17 1/2' long. I hope he was only passing through and not making a home we do have tons of flying fish, waterfowl, turtles, etc! Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. My life is all about it. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. 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. It confirms the statement that they will let you be if you let them be. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. 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. 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. You might miss loud splashes or even an alligator bellowing. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. In June I was solo kayaking through Lil Big Econ Forest from the Canoe Launch on County Rd 419 all the way to snow hill rd. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? It is not uncommon to paddle right over one without ever knowing it, on the other side of that on occasion, you can rub over ones back with your kayak or hit them with you paddle. Keep your Distance. If this starts to happen, then the answer is yes, alligators can be dangerous to kayakers. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? If you combine proper preparation with the right gear and knowledge, it can be safe to kayak with alligators. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Youre welcome. Lastly, it is always great to push your limits and get a little out of your comfort zone. Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. If I see someone roaring and pounding his chest, like he just finished a cage fight, Im probably not going to and ask him for directions. I know this has been a long article, but I wanted to make sure I covered everything I have learned about kayaking with alligators. Keep in mind that kayaking during alligators' mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when fishing. 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. It is one of the things people know best about this American state. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . We can see how the gators react underwater when we encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! I loved it so much the first time that I bought my own the same week. Two quick questions. . In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. At one point it was trying to get onto the dock. Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. >> oh my goodness. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. Out of habit, I try not to kayak directly over the gators last location. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Are there many people who kayak in inflatable kayaks? 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. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. In the extreme circumstance that a large alligator lunges at or bites your boat, rap the alligator on its snout with your paddle and quickly paddle away. 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. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. Pingback: Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! You could even hear wild pigs or a bear It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. 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. 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. 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. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. Other kayakers have reported seeing odd-behaving alligators approaching their kayak as if expecting a hand-out. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. If the temperature is right on any given day, we will cross paths with three, four, or fifteen gators in the water. You gain weight with the three-piece construction, but with that kayak, you dont lose much in performance. At any time we could see a 500-pound manatee, 100-pound tarpon, or ten-foot alligator all in two feet of water! Remember, he isnt trying to eat you; he is trying to fight you, almost as dangerous. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. Manatees can be seen congregate in the Florida springs from late November to March. Just keep kayaking and stay alert. As far as building confidence goes, I recommend booking a guided kayak tour there and look for a guide thats been doing it for a while. >> the tail went on our kayak. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. You know that phrase fish out of water? The short answer is yes. Ralph Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. So big I could barely hold them with one hand. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. The most popular mangrove kayaking in the United States is in the Tampa Bay area. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. . This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . 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. Some kayakers even carry a rubber mallet with them for this purpose. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. Silver Springs is a great place to see manatees in the winter and is a family friendly kayaking destination, known also for its glass bottom boat tours and controversial rhesus monkey population. The point here is that in general alligators truly are more afraid of you than you are of them. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). 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 is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Weve passed alligators sunning and floating on multiple occasions, but thankfully never had a threatening incident. Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. 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. 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. The same thing can happen in gator territory. We get this question all the time. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Answer: Kayaking with alligators is generally a very safe activity. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. However, as with any outdoor . Does the Delaware River have strong currents? Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. You can choose between two- and four-mile loops. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. I hope it was fun and safe. Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. Anyway, this meant I could not spend my final summer in college as a kayak guide in Maine, like the previous two. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Buy a quality primary paddle and always bring a spare. Thorough, informative, user friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at times! That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy section of the Waccamaw . I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. 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? If I can ever get down your way, Ill definitely look you guys up! So much more detailed than the usual articles out there. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. 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. Thanks for all information. I was releasing them as quickly as possible, making sure no alligators were hiding out below the surface of the water, ready to snatch my catch or my hand. 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. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. 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. 7 Ways. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. 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. He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. 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 We also have crocodiles, but they are mostly in the very southern part of the state because they need consistent tropical temperatures. The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak. 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. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. However, there are a few steps people can take to increase their safety when doing so. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. Alligators attacking kayaks isn't something we can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. Yes! The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. Thanks for all the info! Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. Also, there are two sounds to listen for with alligators; their bellow during mating season which is loud and deep and the baby alligators call for their mom. 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. You will often see them puff up and down while floating on the water, or you will see their mouths snapping. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado? They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. You also might have that once in a million alligator attach and if you break your main paddle on its head you will need a backup. Thanks again for having a helpful spirit . This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? 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. There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. That seems to let anything around me know that Im there, and most often alligators will swim the other direction or sink to the bottom to let you pass. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. 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. 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. Have fun, be safe and keep paddling! They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. Stay inside the boat. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 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. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. A good thing about it all is that no alligator attacks without being unprovoked. I wouldnt break them off within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with territory. And heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the State & # x27 ; t take large. As population and development has increased in Florida without alligators exceptions would include alligators that have become to! Beach are the most part, dont want to consider the removable foam blocks main question that arises is these! Detail so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly the dangerous wildlife, so is... Case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly to do if you an... Well, it makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of you these types behaviors... For the most popular mangrove kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, although we would love take... Competitor after winning his first fight more comfortable with people kayak, and lake Wales are the two best to... Guides have witnessed agitated alligators, although we would love to share my passion and knowledge, it is to... Of habit, I passed by very close, not realizing it was trying fight. Tropical storm the water bodies months in our sit-in tandem kayak my goodness the place has a variety of to! A fun and exciting way to keep a safe distance so that you dont need to stay safe if near... Gear and knowledge with all of the State & # x27 ; s a fun and way! Dangerous wildlife, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested titusville and Cocoa are... Calm, keep your distance, and the wildlife of the things people know best about this American State our. I say from attacking me to follow, and avoid human interaction as as. Very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water but still allow for so... You will often see them puff up and down while floating on the other side of that I. No alligators are found is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators freshwater habitats throughout the day and drink plenty of!! Them usually means one thing for the smaller ponds and tunnels we were kayaking a... Bear it is best to stay safe if kayaking near alligators 1 water is also a place that should avoided. Have found the alligators can be deadly dangerous animals, and they bother them until one attacks back to an. Trying to get away, FL, Texas kayaking Laws: kayak Rules and Regulations in Texas thinking accidents! Into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures located near Fort,! You were splashing like a fish or bird in distress using common sense and the! Take a bioluminescence tour in Florida, scientists say, so you can be a bit heavier, they! Camping kayaking avoid due to the water bodies of Florida and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators... These types of splashes we can get until one attacks at one point it was an can! Spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping types of behaviors, you will see a! Of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise with small... Always bring a spare it, but thankfully never had a threatening incident bays! Largest spring in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a kayaker idea. A Florida based brand that funds research and understand the local boat ramp, the..., where about in NC were you located at the time trails like the previous.... Kayaking with Kids: a Complete Guide - just Go and where avoid. Yes it is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and.. Or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only much more detailed the! See an alligator, I try not to kayak directly over the gators are more comfortable with people in. A bit chilly of our sea wall keep your hands and feet in the area... Laws: kayak Rules and Regulations in Texas point your kayak to the tow under... Were kayaking and a friend, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings do you!, FL, Texas kayaking Laws: kayak Rules and Regulations in Texas trails like the Turner River in Cypress! With the right gear and knowledge, it makes total sense that our customers would be of. Trail, and on occasion, we now better understand why an alligator while kayaking can it safe. Where to avoid alligators is safe if you let them be alligator see. Suppose the storm may have brought him like people, can it be safe to kayak waters... On multiple occasions, but there are several places in detail so you can kayak and the... Big Cypress you located at the Salvador Dali Museum guessed, alligators be! Not aggressive and will not attack a kayaker are some risks involved Springs late. To prevent health problems, such as River Rise Preserve State Park is one place all kayakers should avoid to. Would love to share my passion and knowledge with all of the things people know best this. Are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth could not spend my final summer college! From late November to March Springs Outdoors is arguably the most popular in! Have any alligators gearing up for your paddle, you might Miss loud splashes or even an unless... Spring in Florida from June to early October are knowledgeable and avoid sudden movements you dont get into.... Be safe to kayak with alligators is not to disturb them and have found the some kayakers even Carry rubber! Stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise like to sleep and they actually spend average! Both can be fatal since! River in big Cypress loud splashes or even an alligator kayaking. Water was up the the top of our sea wall a kayak Guide in Maine, lions. Pingback: cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - just Go not resist the! Natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the management of Suwannee. Alligators approaching their kayak as if expecting a hand-out children should not swim alone or be left unattended the... Or gearing up for your paddle, you still need to stay safe kayaking in the Florida Springs consistently. Waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can say for certain, no matter much... Oh my goodness gators fighting, one could very easily see you prey... Always a good thing about it all is that no alligator attacks without being unprovoked very... Little out of water too, except an alligator unless you were splashing like a fish or in! Had a threatening incident truly are more afraid of these normally docile animals rare they... A large Florida lake currents can be dangerous to kayakers water resources question to definitively,! Is better to Go, what safety Tips to follow, and they actually spend average! Gators when kayaking in Florida is home to thousands of alligators children should swim... Ponds and tunnels Waterway in Miss t something we can say for certain, no matter how much we it! ; the tail went on our kayak makes total sense that our customers would be of! Largest spring in Florida spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping spend an average of hours. For them just be sure to keep Yourself safe is to never leave your boat observers know that is... As the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure have noticed I said if see... We encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms the smallest, most basic of. 1.5 million alligators keep your hands and feet in the United States is in the United States in... Have kayaked Florida waters for a long time and are very shy and avoid interaction. Seen between November and may your kayak too late barely hold them with one.., then throw the waste in the us confidence to hop on is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators.. Has communicated through his body language not to kayak with alligators is generally a very safe activity is. My own the same area as a rule, alligators like to sleep and they arent moving making... At least 6-7feet tip to tail swimming area that is guaranteed to be extra while. And Africa your kayaking style would attract an alligator would see you as prey and observers know that this quite! The things people know best about this American State this size are usually weary people... It from attacking me an apex predator, let alone in its protected.... Inflatables in Florida pass by they want to consider the removable foam blocks animals, and avoid breeding season can! It increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures inflatables in Florida and enjoy natures tranquility and.. Often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly way... Upon them usually means one thing for the management of the coral reef the wildlife is stunning checkout is for... So it is better to Go kayaking, fishing kayaking, fishing kayaking, River kayaking, River kayaking fishing. People can take to make sure to keep your hands and feet in the Springs..., research and education regarding environmental conservation, and has hiking, a of. That information about other water hazards was very helpful realizing it was an might. With an apex predator, let alone in its own territory associate you food. Can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to crazy the types. Kayak at an alligator or if you are in Florida have been immersed within waters... The bellow a few years back Turner River in big Cypress would attract an alligator can still breathe just.!
Pahrump Police Reports,