Unless threatened, they will care less about you and your party paddling in your fishing kayaks around them. Contrary to what some people may believe, alligators typically don't view humans as food. I wouldnt expect the alligator youre referencing to be as comfortable. It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. They typically drown their prey, so if theyve attached to a persons hand, they will drag them in and hold them under. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. But it doesn't take a large alligator to put a . There are certain places that you can visit that are alligator-free. Thank you for writing this so I know what to be aware of still may not kayak for a bit. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. photos by Lee Howard Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her . Two quick questions. So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? Ralph 2. Besides, dangerous does not equal forbidden, as adrenaline junkies know. 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. 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. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. You know that phrase fish out of water? Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Alexander Springs Recreation Area. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. 4) when they are crossing the road. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. 3. If the gator swims directly at you, you should line the kayak to point directly at him, then back paddle. Thank you! It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Yikes! Going to lakes on your own is the most adventurous, but also the most dangerous. If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! I always thought making noise like loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator before I approached its territory. If we werent, we would be kayaking in Maine. Tips on How to Stay Safe, 15 Best Baitcasting Reel Under $100 2022 - Improve your, Heavy Duty Fishing: 11 Best Rods And Reels For Big Fish 2022, 12 Best Spinning Reels Under 150 2022 - Budget Friendly, 12 Best Fishing Lures Ever 2022 - Baits That Revolutionized, 17 Best Trolling Reels 2022 - Enjoy your Fishing Adventure, How To Change Power Trim & Tilt Fluid For Yamaha Boats. In my opinion, there are a few benefits of an inflatable and there are certain waters where they might be best. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . 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. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Think two sheep ramming each other. No problem! I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. 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 is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. The last thing to consider is a cheaper and lightweight 10-footer that is easy to transport and wouldnt require much in terms of the carrying system. Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. Not a big deal if it happens. 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. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. The state has many beautiful kayaking spots and the weather is generally good for kayaking year-round. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. You really cant beat the durability of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak made by Old Town or Wilderness Systems. However, the gators still knew I was there, and I did need to keep an eye out for them. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! We actually stand up in them to spot the manatees. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. The most popular mangrove tunnel tour is in Tampa Bay. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. Kayaking in Florida can be quite the fun and exciting experience, no matter where you decide to do it! must have been at least 6-7feet tip to tail! How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? So big I could barely hold them with one hand. Alligators are known to be more aggressive during mating season, which is April through June. This also applies to alligator eggs. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. That very easily could be an alligator fight. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. Most alligators you come across will want nothing to do with you, and maintaining a respectful distance will minimize any chance of an encounter. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! All of our guides are comfortable in gator territory. This usually works for us and turns them away. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. Yes! Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. The first is that of alligators. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. the elusive gators, but I dont want to unknowingly annoy the animal. Avoid leaving fish on the edge of your boat or even in the bottom. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. 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! - Just Go! Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. If you witness two gators fighting, one could very easily see you as the next competitor after winning his first fight. online10 at checkout is required for our lowest price guarantee for Florida. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. You could even have one swim directly at you. One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. As you might have already guessed, alligators like to sleep and they actually spend an average of 17 hours per day sleeping. There I lived with my black lab and got off of work every day at 3 pm. Is it Safe to Do. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. The key here is to keep the fish as quiet as possible when reeling them in. 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. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. Kayak with a friend How dangerous are alligators? Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. Also, there are two sounds to listen for with alligators; their bellow during mating season which is loud and deep and the baby alligators call for their mom. Lastly, the more experiences you have on the water, the better you get at identifying certain splashes. In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. Turning a corner once and in slipped a alligator, I decided to stay on my course which went right over were the gator just entered. You know water sports you know me! Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? They simply do not care for a bipedal mammal in a weird floating device splashing the water around. I hope he was only passing through and not making a home we do have tons of flying fish, waterfowl, turtles, etc! I kayak in the cape fear river in wilmington, nc. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? seminole county deputies. Ok, you might notice the word small mammal. On the very first 90-degree day in the winter or spring, alligators will immediately change from frozen statues to remote-controlled boats zooming around the pond. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Yes, it does happen! Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. Save. Have fun, be safe and keep paddling! Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. Trip times will vary and change on a daily basis based on wind/water conditions. I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. 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. Yes, it is intimidating, but if you know how to react, you can stay safe. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. That is it! Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. However, as with any outdoor . Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden central Florida secret, located north of the Kennedy Space Center. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. 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. Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy section of the Waccamaw . 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. All participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets. After all, they are capable of seriously injuring you or even killing you. With a good camera, you can make some amazing photos and that is it. I am planning to winter in Florida for the the first time. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. When Are Alligators At Their Most Aggressive? - Just Go! . 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. 7 Ways. Yeah, it could have meant he was establishing his territory. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! 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. 1) Tour Everglades National Park. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. So, is it safe to kayak in Florida? Keep exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you have more questions! Mother alligators are dangerous to meddle with because they will attack anything or anybody that they see as a hazard to their babies. If you are planning on kayaking in Florida, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by alligators. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Observing these magnificent beasts from afar is enough as you admire them. 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. Yes, newborn alligators are adorable but don't approach or try to handle them. The best places to do this in Florida include the Everglades National Park and the Wakulla Springs National Park. Google both sounds and if you hear either one while paddling you need to pay extra close attention. Encountering two gators in fight mode is an exciting experience to witness but also potentially dangerous. They dont want to share the beach with anyone, and the largest alligators will start to defend their small pond or sunny patch of beach. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. Alligators attacking kayaks is certainly not something we can say for sure has never occurred, no matter how much we wish it were so. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. Just play it safe and enjoy your kayaking! 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. 4. I would stay away from it. There are some risks to consider when Kayaking in Cape Coral Canals. Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. This guy (or gal?) If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. 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. Thanks for all the info Kyle. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. With everything above being said, why is kayaking with alligators so frowned upon then and why is the whole debate of whether it is fun, dangerous, or necessary? In addition, this area has many access points, such as Palatka or Blue Spring State Park. What better place to see some gators and kayak with them than Florida? 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. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? Suwannee River Wilderness. However, you still need to remember an Alligator does not see you as prey, but they can associate you with a meal. 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. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. 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. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. If you jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! As a Florida family, kayaking is one of our favorite things to do. On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . Yes, it actually happens! Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. 5 Reasons to Know. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). No need to get close and disturb them. Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? You just gave me all the information I was searching for. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. 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. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. In my experiences with false charges, the gators want to be visible, and they are, meaning they are on the top of the water and are trying to intimidate you. - Just Go! Sometimes while launching or gearing up for your paddle, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the move. 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.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4-0'); Organized sessions that take out groups of kayakers at a time to see the alligators do exist and they are led by experienced paddlers and wildlife experts. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. People are being reminded to be safe while kayaking . They might be a bit heavier, but they are next to indestructible even from an Aligator Tooth! Slowly unzip your life jacket pocket, pull out your camera, and take a picture.. 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. Great article full of lots of good information. 4) Bask In Greatness At The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. 2) if you approach a female alligator or her babies. 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. Not only can this help you avoid sticky situations like kayaking by an alligator nest it can also help you spot amazing wildlife encounters. 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. Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Yes, they are perceiving your kayak as an unknown, potential hazard and they're going to a different location where they feel safer. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. The most popular mangrove kayaking in the United States is in the Tampa Bay area. Mainly due to how shallow everything is. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. JOHNS COUNTY - See you later, alligator! Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. Thank you so much for the info! Our guides have witnessed agitated alligators, and on occasion, we have surprised them. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. Since alligators eat fish. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. My husband and I just bought a 10ft. However, doing it on your own always poses dangers because not a lot of folk know what not do to. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: The short answer is yes, the long answer is yes and no. Also, the south isn't filled with nearly as many alligators as I . "Kayaking with alligators in Florida" is a phrase most people never think they will hear themselves say.Yet, for some of us who live in Florida, kayaking with the alligators is an unfortunate and necessary reality.When you learn how to stay safe while kayaking through gator-infested waters, it can b. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Florida use code ONLINE10 at checkout for the lowest price guarantee. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. They just want to fight you. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. 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. The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. 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. I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. this is super important, listen up. If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. 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. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. I have had a couple of sightings of alligators. I also have been warned by an alligator before, and if I were in an inflatable, I would have been in trouble. 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.
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