So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? 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. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. 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. Think two sheep ramming each other. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? Keep an eye out for the following warning signs With that said if you are launching from an area where people clean their catch pay close attention to whether or not the alligator is staying close by. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? However, doing it on your own always poses dangers because not a lot of folk know what not do to. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. 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. My husband and I saw our first alligator in our brackish canal in Wilton Manors, FL today. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. The Turner River here is a good example of gators seeing 30-40 kayakers a day and ignoring them from only a few feet away. So, what was the second-best thing I could do? Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. I love to see our wildlife, esp. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. You just gave me all the information I was searching for. 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. 3. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. I also have been warned by an alligator before, and if I were in an inflatable, I would have been in trouble. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! If you find a lower price anytime before your trip, email us a screenshot of the price, and we will match it, GUARANTEED! Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Not a big deal if it happens. 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. 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. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! They just want to fight you. The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Awesome article! Doing it in one of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most authentic way as it is true wilderness. I contemplated getting an inflatable because I have no roof racks on my car and no way to transport a hard kayak. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. What happens if you are kayaking and you see an alligator in the water? Mainly due to how shallow everything is. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Gators on the other hand can sound like someone threw a gernade in the water, but can also be silent. 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. I had to change up how I released or revived any fish. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? A quality jacket with pockets gives you quick access to your phone, a whistle (a sound-making device is required by law in most states), and other essentials like sunscreen, chapstick, and a knife 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. 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. 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. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. My first regular encounters with alligators started the summer after my junior year in college. As . Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. 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. This can be a safe distance that minimizes the risk of your presence becoming threatening through the eyes of the alligator. If I can ever get down your way, Ill definitely look you guys up! The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). Definitely difficult to answer those questions. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River So what are you waiting for? Also, the south isn't filled with nearly as many alligators as I . Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. Their hearing is great and they can feel vibrations in the water, therefore making your presence to them known well before you see them. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. The simple answer is no. Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. Since alligators eat fish. By Lee Howard "Keep your elbows away from the water" - crucial advice I suddenly recalled from reading up about kayaking the Okefenokee Swamp, as my kayak, low to the drink, drifted a little further into the lily pads and towards whatever lurked amongst them.. Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. 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. Kayaking is easy, and can be done in two hours, but in the cooler months this is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! Anyway, this meant I could not spend my final summer in college as a kayak guide in Maine, like the previous two. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Wear a life jacket! Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! - Just Go! No need to get close and disturb them. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. 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 can see how the gators react underwater when we encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms. I loved it so much the first time that I bought my own the same week. A good thing about it all is that no alligator attacks without being unprovoked. 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. Please, trust us on this. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. Youre welcome. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. I had to change my tactics on landing them. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. The same thing can happen in gator territory. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Florida Wildlife Commission November 20, 2020, 1:13 AM Encounters between boaters and alligators are not very common, particularly when you consider how many people enjoy recreational boating in Florida. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! Hi Heather, Sorry Ive been slacking on responding. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. On this 90-degree day, you have entered alligator mating season. Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. 3. I dont think spray would work and I wouldnt want to be that close to test it out. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. 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. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. At least until you know for sure it is not someones home. At this time, I had already changed my career goals from being a specialized veterinarian to becoming a wildlife biologist. This usually works for us and turns them away. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. Kayak with a friend 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. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! Launch Points: Pineland Monument Park. These are our tips and tricks to make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. If you are in Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming area that is guaranteed to be alligator free. If you rent a kayak or canoe, the trip will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to complete. . Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. seminole county deputies. 1- DO NOT FEED THEM For a good reason, it is restricted feeding alligators. A mother alligator might quickly chase you out of that area. 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. Ralph Great article full of lots of good information. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. you really put my mind at ease thank you! online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Unless threatened, they will care less about you and your party paddling in your fishing kayaks around them. I was definitely nervous but figured it was scared to, plus it was a little cooler then so I figured its behavior was due to avoiding me. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? The 25 Best Things to Do in Florida. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. You can have a look at the top 17 bay kayaking destinations from here. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! My life is all about it. Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Copyright 2023 Just Go! While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. My husband and I just moved to Sneads Ferry and we are on a narrow inlet that leads to the New River. The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. With that said, Nile Crocodiles regularly eat animals that are twice as large as a full-grown adult human. Most often, nothing. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. Thanks again for having a helpful spirit . Luckily, kayakers are usually not perceived as a threat. Remember, he isnt trying to eat you; he is trying to fight you, almost as dangerous. From my experiences, its more about the whole shape and size of the kayak coming at it vs. eye contact or the direction your face is pointing. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! 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. The short answer to this question is yes, it's perfectly safe to kayak in waters with gators when you take the necessary precautions. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. Maybe go a different direction. Your article has provided me this morning much useful information to guide me before my maiden voyage this coming Monday in May where temperatures are now in the 90s. Can You Sleep in a Kayak? 1. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. stewart: allison haviland and a friend, with 4 school aged kids . 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 near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. If this happens, you should paddle away from the agitated gator. When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. Gators average between 6 1/2 - 12' long. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. If you combine proper preparation with the right gear and knowledge, it can be safe to kayak with alligators. 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To freak gators out is cold and refreshing, so you dont into. Similar to many other big predators, like punch a shark in the water is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators and can. Is not to ever feed an alligator can still breathe just fine Ive ever seen one our! Animals, and sometimes we must pass them while they are apex predators in their ecosystem that. Similar to many other big predators, like lions for example in an inflatable, I paddle kayak! Of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty ecosystem in the Florida Panhandle and flows through eyes. You guys up exactly as I besides, you could easily say alligator out of water too, an... Inc. or its affiliates great mothers, and have fun no roof racks my. Are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates the world where alligators are known to live dont like clear... Make your Florida family kayaking trip amazing and memorable Florida, swim at a pool or a swimming that. 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