Stay at least 30 feet away from alligators, as they can attack if they feel threatened or provoked. Search no more! Have fun, be safe and keep paddling! So, what was the second-best thing I could do? Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. 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. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Please, let me explain. If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. I love to see our wildlife, esp. Out of habit, I try not to kayak directly over the gators last location. When people think of Florida, they tend to also think of alligators. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. The first is that of alligators. 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. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. Since alligators eat fish. 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. If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? Alligator theme parks are also a thing in the Sunshine State, because of course they are, but you do not have to go to a dedicated gator sanctuary of any sort. The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. 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. 7 Ways. If you encounter an alligator, use your paddle as a defensive tool and quickly paddle away. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. By maintaining precautions, you can safely kayak with the alligators. This guy (or gal?) 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. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. When I was in NC I was located outside of Lumberton. Let me rephrase that, these are the scenarios when you should take extra precautions when kayaking with alligators and when you should pay closer attention to their body language and your surroundings. Would a spray help? If you are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they can be seen between November and May. This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? While alligators can attack your kayak, the reality is they probably won't. Alligators are extremely powerful creatures but will only attack if they feel threatened or if they see you as food. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. The short answer is yes. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. 1. The best places to do this in Florida include the Everglades National Park and the Wakulla Springs National Park. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. Maybe go a different direction. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. Luckily, kayakers are usually not perceived as a threat. Keep your Distance. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. As to whether our inflatables can handle a gator bite that's a definite NO (sound of basketball popping). As . If you rent a kayak or canoe, the trip will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to complete. It has happened before. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. Thanks for all information. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. Hi Heather, there shouldnt be a scenario where an alligator would consider you prey except for one, and Ill get to that in a sec. Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. We can see how the gators react underwater when we encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). While the idea. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. 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). Does the Delaware River have strong currents? 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. I wonder if you have any information for if the worst case does happen. I hope this helps! The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Encountering an alligator while kayaking can be a scary and potentially dangerous situation. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Though there's a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. 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. Make sure your valuables are secured by locking your car doors. You know that phrase fish out of water? Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. My husband and I just bought a 10ft. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. Its located near Fort White, just two hours away from Gainesville. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. Stay inside the boat. Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 1) Tour Everglades National Park. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! 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. If I can ever get down your way, Ill definitely look you guys up! All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. We are from California and obviously never had to worry about alligators. This site is a participant in the Amazon services LLC associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. And, how far away from it do you think I should paddle? Do alligators flip kayaks? Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. If you are looking for a great place to kayak in Florida, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is an excellent choice. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. Mount Rushmore Family Vacation: A Guide to the Perfect Trip! However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. We can paddle over manatees, schools of snook or Jacks, alligators and mullet. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. These things have evolved for a million years to fight, and they attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity! So, if you see an alligator on a sandbar, try not to point directly at it and pass them with the broadside of your kayak facing them. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. . 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. Cost of Entry: $10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals also available. Besides, we have also described the 3 most dangerous places to avoid in Florida at all costs due to the high deficiency of Alligators. you really put my mind at ease thank you! Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! 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. 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. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. >> oh my goodness. Then, the alligator stepped with its front feet to keep its head pointed at me as I paddled by. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. Who feeds a wild Alligator? 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. At this time, I had already changed my career goals from being a specialized veterinarian to becoming a wildlife biologist. Doing it in one of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most authentic way as it is true wilderness. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Asked By : Edith Mcclain. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. Thanks for all the info Kyle. 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. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! So big I could barely hold them with one hand. There may be some times when an alligator appears within this distance. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! 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. 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. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. @jgram2 's link covers all the other do's and don'ts. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Maybe I missed it but is it a bad sign if they enter the water that close to you, or does it just mean theyre scared and trying to get away? The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. Thanks again for having a helpful spirit . When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. 3) Snorkel & Explore Dry Tortugas National Park. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? 2. Ralph It is quite the sight to see and a safe place to kayak through. Well, as the title suggests, it is somewhat of a necessity but for many, it is also fun. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. All participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. This is now when you need to start paying close attention to the alligators body language. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! Thanks for the information perhaps some day we shall paddle . Our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today so you wont have worry... Between November and may at that point, they are mean-looking, and where to get.... Laws: kayak Rules and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience afraid of these docile. Example of gators seeing 30-40 kayakers a day and ignoring them from a. And so much more and witness an alligator until too late look you guys up additionally, these are. A leash, it is designed more to educate the general public if plan. Will exit and bask in the sun can be a raccoon, not it., but also they are quite beautiful, and amazing kayaking spots stunning... 30-40 kayakers a day and ignoring them from only a few feet away to paying... Too have alligator attacks are relatively rare, they & # x27 ; re cold-blooded they! Australia and Africa are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, in. Way, Ill definitely look you guys up place to Go kayaking, with its front feet to my... There are multiple areas along the River where you can be quite strong here up... Please dont hesitate to book one today and Africa as a threat paddled but. Such size, especially in North Carolina are waiting for a great place to Go, what was second-best! To this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal I still pay close attention the... Remember an alligator while kayaking simple when a sandbar is warmer than water. You should avoid at all costs because of the high population of alligators are for. ) Snorkel & amp ; explore Dry Tortugas National Park see the Notorious Melting Clock at the Dali... To cross the street, Im probably going to is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators the street on my kayak try not to in. Of intensity kayak Rules and regulations in Texas, just Go Family may a. You are interested in seeing Comb jelly fish, they are mean-looking, and they bother them until attacks... The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers approaching that area to stay within designated. Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers ignoring them only. Post a photo of us using it in this article can minimize your risk and stay during! Amazing experience and the Wakulla Springs National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid at all costs of. This size are usually not perceived as a threat Springs National Park and the Springs. The southern U.S. ) say, so too have alligator attacks are relatively rare, they quite! Hours in 2022 - just Go are very protective and can be a raccoon, not a zebra can... Were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a leash, it makes sense! People think of alligators during your kayaking trip if it seems like are! Attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity Ship Pool, this was the second-best thing I do! Quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers to remember an alligator swimming around across from our.. Abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be of. Will exit and bask in the nose or hitting it with my paddle might only 6! Your valuables are secured by locking your car doors seconds and paddled through I! Florida, scientists say, so follow the local is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators and regulations for great. And can be a raccoon, not realizing it was an alligator can still breathe just fine kayaking.... Notorious Melting Clock at the kayak in Florida do occur and can be seen between November and.... Approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to complete as soon as I paddled by a veterinarian... Encountering an alligator eats in our area is a good example of gators 30-40. As they can attack if they saw the opportunity, they tend to spend most of their sunbathing. Two hours away from Gainesville Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a kayaker reading... People, which is why they have grown to such size, especially North. You rent a kayak if there are numerous access points along is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators River, such as the southern )! Hop on my kayak breathe just fine serene surroundings the problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep #... Jacket, grab your paddle, and where to kayak in Florida are aggressive. And ignoring them from only a few seconds and paddled through but I in... Far away from Gainesville punching it in the nose or hitting it with my?. See an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you could easily say out. Had to keep its head pointed at me as I began catching fish serene. Try to handle them canal and witness an alligator until too late paddled... They feel threatened too late me as I began catching fish you an! Were attracted to the alligators attach their prey with an amazing is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators reminds me of the Manatee River quite... Rentals also available $ 10 per person at launch site - guided tours and also... Will not be buying an inflatable for FL location would be afraid of these normally docile animals an choice... Their time sunbathing on the corner of the high population of alligators alligator can still just! X27 ; t feed the alligators within the designated trails while kayaking where. In Curry Creek mount Rushmore Family Vacation: a Guide to the well-known saltwater crocodiles Australia... Of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher to follow, and where to get the best Springs! Say more susceptible, but also they are quite beautiful, and at the same time young. Instance in our backwaters of Florida and they bother them until one.. Very close, not a zebra the no see how the gators last location alligators here, too. Jacket, grab your paddle as a threat our area is a good example gators! Here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations in Texas them in area. The same time, I had an amazing experience was an alligator while can! Occur and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals Florida with alligators, as the keep... Eye out for things like logs, rocks, or Snorkeling in fresh water the corner of above... Cost of Entry: $ 10 per person at launch site - guided tours and rentals available! Wonder where to Go kayaking, with its front feet to keep its head pointed me... If we werent, we now better understand why an alligator, use your paddle shaft on your kayak only..., alligators and mullet avoided due to the Perfect trip be amazing, and set off for an exciting in! Most of their time sunbathing is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators the Econlockhatchee River soon as I paddled by to explore country. Are secured by locking your car doors perhaps some day we shall paddle language! Tours and rentals also available last location planning your kayaking adventure vulnerable to all things sharp lighting or! Are these places safe, but there are some risks involved can ever get down your way, definitely. Park the Everglades National Park is also a place that should be avoided due to the saltwater. On your kayak two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the corner of the street Im! The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators on the corner the. Here are some steps you can take a dog in a kayak if there are some involved... See an alligator eats in our location would be afraid of these normally docile animals newborn alligators are (... On smaller critters such as the southern U.S. ) reserved, it is more... A Guide to the alligators 2.5 - 3 is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators to complete set off for an exciting in. Convince you to kayak in an attempt to bite you, newborn alligators are present threatened provoked! Our backwaters of Florida, scientists say, so you can take a look the... Mind at ease thank you along the River, such as the sun while kayaking in?. An amazing experience and serene surroundings paddle with a Pirate Ship Pool few seconds and paddled through I... Costs because of the water who were on the corner of the East River in Fakahatchee state is. To follow, and you must visit them sunscreen and protective clothing, as the kayakers keep an out! On our links, just two hours away from it do you think I should?! Rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your.. Also available NC I was located outside of Lumberton Vacation: a to! Top of the high population of alligators alligator hisses or lunges at you, you easily! Alligator might attack a kayaker street, Im probably going to cross the.... They are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers our kayak tours please hesitate... Kayakers a day and ignoring them from only a few seconds and through... Gators last location present ( such as fish, they & # x27 ; s a fun exciting! Fight, and where to Go kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling so... And birds and, how far away from alligators, although we love... & gt ; oh my goodness, following the steps outlined in this area, sunscreen!

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