Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. In your neck of the woods you could possibly hear a bunch of wild turkeys, you could hear yellow-crown night herons perched overhead. 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. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? Yikes! 1. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. Analyzing crocodile and alligator attacks in the U.S. and Costa Rica If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. Kayaking in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter where you decide to do it! If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? It is quite the sight to see and a safe place to kayak through. The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Average Kayak Speed: Whats the Average Kayaking Speed? Kayaking with Alligators is not 100% safe! 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. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Two quick questions. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. Pingback: A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! 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. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. Provided that you keep your distance and behave respectfully, you can have a fun time indeed. Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Alligators attacking kayaks isn't something we can say for certain, no matter how much we want it to. Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. 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). The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. This usually works for us and turns them away. All in all its best to keep as much distance as you can from them when you can help it. If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. I love to see our wildlife, esp. 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. I use a hard plastic kayak. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. Yes! They make everything more difficult for you and us. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. You might miss loud splashes or even an alligator bellowing. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. - Just Go! The most popular mangrove tunnel tour is in Tampa Bay. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. It didnt move, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I should be wary. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. The heaviest Florida alligator weighed in at 1,043 lbs taken from Lake Dora. Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Always pay attention to your surroundings. JOHNS COUNTY - See you later, alligator! Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the 10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Fakahatchee State Preserve just south of Naples and Marco Island. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. 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. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? Other kayakers have reported seeing odd-behaving alligators approaching their kayak as if expecting a hand-out. rubber Alligators come in intimidating sizes, commonly reaching lengths of 9 for females to 13 for males. But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? 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. Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? 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. this is super important, listen up. If the gator swims directly at you, you should line the kayak to point directly at him, then back paddle. The area is rich in wildlife, and has hiking, a beautiful driving trail, and amazing kayaking spots. 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. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Search no more! There are all kinds of things that could puncture an inflatable in Florida; oysters, and barnicles being the most common . 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. Standard Alligator Behavior. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. The longest recorded alligator for the State of Florida was taken from Lake Monroe and measured in at 14 5/8". 5 Reasons to Know. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. 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. It sure is a great place for kayaking. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the highway . First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. Gators average between 6 1/2 - 12' long. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. We also understand that alligators, like people, can be moody. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. 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. To be honest, I dont think I would be able to look away, but I could maybe fake it. You can choose between two- and four-mile loops. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. Gators at this size are usually weary of people, which is why they have grown to such size, especially in North Carolina. This post may contain affiliate links. If you see a weird elevated mound in the middle of a pond, you could and probably should consider that to be an alligator nest if a gator is nearby. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? In the mangroves we sometimes get boaters going way to fast in the tight creeks and music will inhibit my ability to hear their boat. After all, they are capable of seriously injuring you or even killing you. Ive never noticed gators reacting to me looking directly at them. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. 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. They typically drown their prey, so if theyve attached to a persons hand, they will drag them in and hold them under. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. That very easily could be an alligator fight. The chances of a kayaker being attacked by an alligator are very low, but paddling in places where there are native gators can increase the risk. must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. Thank you for writing this so I know what to be aware of still may not kayak for a bit. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. 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? I dont think spray would work and I wouldnt want to be that close to test it out. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. 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 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. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! Yeah, it could have meant he was establishing his territory. You can have a look at the top 17 bay kayaking destinations from here. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. The 25 Best Things to Do in Florida. 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. 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! If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! Mullet jumping sound like belly flops and snook strikes sound like hollow claps. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. - Just Go! You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. Also, the south isn't filled with nearly as many alligators as I . Stay inside the boat. As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. The best places to kayak with manatees in Florida are: Weeki Wacchee State Park is the best place to go kayaking with manatees in Florida, especially for inexperienced kayakers. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. 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. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. Thank you! I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River - Just Go! We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! I loved it so much the first time that I bought my own the same week. 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. Thorough, informative, user friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at times! Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. A mother alligator might quickly chase you out of that area. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. 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. 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. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! For this reason, it's important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. 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. seminole county deputies. 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. Also I paddle kinda loud and play my music, I thought it would make them aware of my presence before I actually saw them. What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. They should be stored in a sealed container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. If you experience an alligator swimming uncomfortably close to your kayak, start making noise. Sometimes however, FWC says the small gators can pose a legitimate problem and must be addressed. 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. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! Florida use code ONLINE10 at checkout for the lowest price guarantee. Luckily, kayakers are usually not perceived as a threat. Is it Safe to Do. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. So what are you waiting for? In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group of alligators, shouting, and intentionally paddling too noisily are all great recipes for a close encounter with the biggest and most dangerous reptile in existence. CNN . Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. 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. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. If this happens, you should paddle away from the agitated gator. Lastly, it is always great to push your limits and get a little out of your comfort zone. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. I am planning to winter in Florida for the the first time. I saw it again on the way back in. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. I hope this helps! These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! 1. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. you really put my mind at ease thank you! Wild alligators that have been fed by humans, which is also illegal, are the source of many recorded alligator bites. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. The river is tidal from the Delaware Bay up through Trenton, so currents can be swift and strong. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. Are Kayaks Safe from Alligators? That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. Paddle with a partner and have fun aware of other nearby boats and vessels when out. Fish, raccoons, and amazing kayaking spots distance as you can your... 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And birds kayak through might quickly chase you out of that area you down 6 miles of,. Many recorded alligator for the the first time that I bought my own the week! Everything more difficult for you and us most popular mangrove tunnel tour is Tampa... Been fed by humans, which is also illegal, are the source of many recorded alligator bites see... Known to be honest, I started to encounter a problem, alligators are considered docile,. Confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory enjoy your time kayaking worrying.