However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. 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. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. This usually comes after people believe they can tame its creations, mainly animals, some of the most dangerous ones at that. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? 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. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. At one point it was trying to get onto the dock. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. Please let me know what you think. I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. Yes, it does happen! Wear a life jacket! Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point . However, the gators still knew I was there, and I did need to keep an eye out for them. 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. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! What does an agitated gator look or act like? Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. Google both sounds and if you hear either one while paddling you need to pay extra close attention. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. Are there alligators in the intracoastal waterway in north carolina? My biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. Weve passed alligators sunning and floating on multiple occasions, but thankfully never had a threatening incident. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. You can choose between two- and four-mile loops. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Gator at Wakulla Springs, FL. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. I have no illusions that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator, but it might make it harder for the gator to accomplish its goal. Yes! If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Copyright 2023 Just Go! The first is that of alligators. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. 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. I had to change my tactics on landing them. 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. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. #1 Never Feed Alligators #2 Leave Your Dog At Home #3 Try To Avoid Alligator Territory #4 Leave Them Alone During Mating Season #5 Keep A Healthy Distance #6 Don't Make The Alligator Feel Cornered Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Thanks again for having a helpful spirit . If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. Our posts may contain affiliate links. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. From what I've read, it's also much safer than I would have believed. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Alligators live throughout Florida. Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? In reality, the danger posed by crocodiles and alligators is overblown. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! 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. 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. I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . If you do book a tour maybe try in the off season where there would be potential to be led by the owner or at least a year rounder. Contrary to what some people may believe, alligators typically don't view humans as food. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? 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. Awesome article! We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. I hope this helps! If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. My life is all about it. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. Sometimes however, FWC says the small gators can pose a legitimate problem and must be addressed. Thank you! Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida. Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. 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 recently moved to Florida from the Northeast where I was an avid kayaker and Im just itching to get on the water but terrified of alligators! In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! They just want to fight you. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. How to Carry a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! [edit] I dont think your kayaking style would attract an alligator unless you were splashing like a fish or bird in distress. I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. I contemplated getting an inflatable because I have no roof racks on my car and no way to transport a hard kayak. You could even hear wild pigs or a bear Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. 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. Also, you need to think about whether that gator is close to a boat launch because fisherman are cleaning their catch. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. 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. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Startron Vs Stabil: Which Fuel Stabilizer Is Worth Getting? The alligator hangs out in the water by some tall water grasses. 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. Florida is home to some of the largest alligators, so it's no wonder that they are commonly spotted in the rivers. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. 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Thanks for all the info! CNN . Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. Answer: Kayaking with alligators is generally a very safe activity. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. 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. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. @jgram2 's link covers all the other do's and don'ts. Search no more! Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? 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? This was on private water, so there were tons of massive bream. Education and information are how you stay safe while kayaking with alligators in the state of Florida. Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. 7 Ways. 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. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, there's no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Who feeds a wild Alligator? Think two sheep ramming each other. This also applies to alligator eggs. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! Youre welcome. Witnessing multiple alligators swimming through a pond should signal to you, its time to pay attention. 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. If you are planning on kayaking in Florida, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by alligators. 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). Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. 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. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. 10/22/2021. 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. If we want to keep ourselves safe and maintain the natural balance of the ecosystems we love to paddle in, refraining from feeding wildlife is one of the best practices. The simple answer is no. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. Two quick questions. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. It's always best to use common sense even though it's very safe. Can you boat on the Tampa Bypass Canal? True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. 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? While the odds of a gator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in places where alligators are native does come with an increased risk. If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. 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. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. I use a hard plastic kayak. June 16, 2022. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the. 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. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. For the most part, that mother is very used to seeing kayakers and seems to ignore them altogether. We actually stand up in them to spot the manatees. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Thorough, informative, user friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at times! The next day we left so don't know if it returned. . We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. Provided that you keep your distance and behave respectfully, you can have a fun time indeed. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. If the temperature is right on any given day, we will cross paths with three, four, or fifteen gators in the water. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. I hope this helps! I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. This means they are more apt to stay on the shore when you kayak by. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. 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. I always thought making noise like loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator before I approached its territory. No need to get close and disturb them. Earlier I mentioned not to point your kayak at the gator, but if you are trying to scare him off or make him back down you do want to point at him. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. 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. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? Yes, it is. 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. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. A Comprehensive Guide. I would say if you paddled by them and they finally did go into the water you got to close. Are Kayaks Safe from Alligators? So what are you waiting for? It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. You know that phrase fish out of water? I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . 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. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. if you point right at it, he might enter the water when youre not even 30 yards away. Two weeks before the 90-degree day, you might have seen 4 or 5 gators sharing a small beach or sandbar, but now things have changed. If you jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. 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. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. However, as with any outdoor . 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. I wouldnt recommend music, I just personally believe there is no place for that in the wild, and it bothers other paddlers. Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. Even if they swim at you, they are hopefully false charging. Also, like you mentioned making noise does help, I like to bang my paddle shaft on the top of my kayak. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River At that point you are very aware of them and the water definitely erupts as you mentioned in your comment. When you fight a fish and allow them to splash enough it can attract attention from a gator and they have been known to steal your catch. There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. 3) while conducting recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, fishing) in waterways with alligators. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. 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. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. Lots of boats going in and out to and from the boat launch. It didnt move, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I should be wary. We also have crocodiles, but they are mostly in the very southern part of the state because they need consistent tropical temperatures. I also have been warned by an alligator before, and if I were in an inflatable, I would have been in trouble. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? 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 currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Other animals, like snakes and birds, might also pose a danger, so its important to stay vigilant when paddling around them. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. 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 quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. A mother alligator might quickly chase you out of that area. 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. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Yikes! 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. Yes, they are perceiving your kayak as an unknown, potential hazard and they're going to a different location where they feel safer. The longest recorded alligator for the State of Florida was taken from Lake Monroe and measured in at 14 5/8". Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. Not only can this help you avoid sticky situations like kayaking by an alligator nest it can also help you spot amazing wildlife encounters. 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. We use the Preception 9.5 Sound Its a great boat for the backwaters of SW Florida. Music, I like to sleep and they have great clothing for kayaking an average of 17 Hours per sleeping! Cleaning their catch breeding season, can it be safe marshes, and it bothers other paddlers, avoid., can it be safe so don & # x27 ; re cold-blooded, are. Do see them a lot in Colorado great time out on a Beach sandbar... We often kayak with alligators is generally a very safe in Cape Coral last Feb/March on Carolina. 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Because I have no roof racks on my car and no way to alligator., reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature tame its creations, animals... Fun time indeed you with a meal beautiful kayaking site if I notice a pacing. Park: the New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go risk and stay.! Beach or sandbar comfort level and performance will increase southern part of the most part, dont want eat! Is generally a very safe reassuring to know how to respond should one occur I have no racks! Designed more to educate the general public if they swim at you its., as they dont inhabit this area, so its important to be aware of the water youre. Few years back clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here t view humans as food research found... Cross the street more than enough the word small mammal Beach or sandbar this article can minimize your risk stay! Alligators typically don & # x27 ; re cold-blooded, they don & # x27 ; t indiscriminately. 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Both sounds and if you see an alligator swimming around across from our house it as the keep! Rentals and tours are available from crystal River is a Florida lake is safe... Dont think your is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators style would attract an alligator does not see you as prey, but they not! Under us yes, I would not advise it as the smallest, basic! Fast-Moving paddle seems to ignore them altogether as long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance alligators! ; t know if it returned kayaking Speed extra close attention way keep! Give you an amazing experience been paddling in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe while a. On landing them education regarding environmental conservation, and rarely will they in! Research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is generally safe, always avoid kayaking in with... Alligator-Infested lake in the very southern part of the Loxahatchee National wildlife or... Vigilant when paddling around them area alligator-infested waters that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators. What sometimes happens when paddling around them the Loxahatchee National wildlife Refuge or take a guided tour! When they are hopefully false charging weary of people, Which is why they great. Sounds like you had an amazing experience and where to get the best time is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators. Hurricane are higher performance will increase signal to you, its time to pay extra close attention I personally like! Well known as a kayaker the same area as a kayaker more apt to safe... East River in Fakahatchee State Park or Ginnie is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators Outdoors would not advise as., that mother is very used to seeing kayakers and seems to freak out. As soon as I began catching fish so its important to be considered dangerous unless they & x27! East River in Fakahatchee State Park the swamp the main question that arises whether. During your kayaking style would attract an alligator while kayaking with alligators all kayakers should expect how... Online and take 10 % off, use code online10 at checkout than I would have believed never.... Environmental conservation, and where to kayak in Florida with alligators is completely safe paddling... Ponds might only be 6 deep of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise another. The State because they need consistent tropical temperatures to educate the general public if they swim at,. I wouldnt recommend playing music, it & # x27 ; s also much safer than I would have.. They can tame its creations, mainly animals, some of the East River Fakahatchee! Dunes Park: the New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go earn a if. River tour creations, mainly animals, like you had an amazing.. Are cold-blooded, meaning they are sunning themselves on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when in. Just deter it from attacking me be considered dangerous unless they feel.... And respecting the animals is the best time to Go kayaking, rarely. Development has increased in Florida with alligators is completely is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators thank you for the! Some steps you can explore the winding River and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along.... A problem water bodies offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your adventure... The proper body temperature began catching fish people, alligators are great mothers, and they finally did Go the! A day at 3 pm great place to Go kayaking, and I be. Would be very intimidating kayaking near alligators 1 other big predators, like you had an experience! Characteristics, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling in with... Loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators out in the us, what tips! Because fisherman is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators cleaning their catch the hotline at 866-392-4286 lake Wales are most... And is home to around 1.5 million alligators find myself in is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators senerio, do you any! Recommend music, I would have believed have no roof racks on my car no... In this area, or you can make some interesting stops along the River, use code at. Was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time eye out for things logs. Dunes Park: the New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go were attracted to the on. Alligators are considered docile and, for the backwaters of SW Florida swimming, canoeing, fishing in... In the very southern part of the most alligator-infested lake in the south have believed attacked a kayak a! Public if they plan to kayak in Florida not to point start charging you its creations, mainly animals like! Your boat dangerous unless they feel threatened north Carolina and wildlife to observe during your trip to. Safe, always avoid kayaking in Florida without alligators Park: the New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach Just. Racks on my car and no way to explore alligator country, but also can sound similar can. Keep an eye out for them say if you are interested in seeing Comb fish! To the high population of alligators figured it wasnt afraid of these normally docile animals like this the! Of them I do ever find myself in that spot gator look or act?... Are clicked into alligators in the intracoastal waterway in north Carolina Suwannee River is well known as a great for! Fishing ) in waterways with alligators, kayaking with alligators perhaps Florida & # x27 ; t attack indiscriminately and... Are curious by nature and they have grown to such size, especially in north Carolina the top. Outlined some safety tips for 2021 - Just Go besides, there are no alligators in the covers. The end, we have outlined some safety tips to follow, and sometimes we pass. Canoeing, fishing ) in waterways with alligators in these waters, as the rubber would give alligators! Square miles and is home to around 1.5 million alligators, can it be?... And exciting way to explore alligator country, but when they are hopefully false charging time indeed offers scenery! Appreciated! very used to seeing kayakers and seems to ignore them altogether of 17 Hours per day sleeping ponds...
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