is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators

1) Tour Everglades National Park. 4. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. Don't Feed the Alligators The No. The best noise you can make is banging your paddle shaft on your kayak. You gain weight with the three-piece construction, but with that kayak, you dont lose much in performance. 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? The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Is it safe to kayak during alligator mating season? Keep your Distance. Our kayaks are designed for this specific area, are unbelievably stable, and have higher gunnels than a typical sea kayak. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. This was on private water, so there were tons of massive bream. One of the coolest kayaking trips you can do is a bioluminescent tour in Florida. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. 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. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! Alligators have to pose an. The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. We get this question all the time. At least until you know for sure it is not someones home. Thorough, informative, user friendly grammer & even a lil entertaining at times! Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? You know water sports you know me! Just keep kayaking and stay alert. Prior to this sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal. Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! if you point right at it, he might enter the water when youre not even 30 yards away. We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. At this time, I had already changed my career goals from being a specialized veterinarian to becoming a wildlife biologist. If you're planning a trip where alligators may be present, make sure to research the area beforehand and take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and avoiding areas where gators are common. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. 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. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. With that said, we all have a healthy respect for them. - Just Go! It is quite the sight to see and a safe place to kayak through. This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. Alligators are just as afraid of us as we are of them, so typically if a kayak enters an alligator area, they will duck below the water and hide. Aligator teeth would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable. One of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and he had a three-piece NDK Romany. I contemplated getting an inflatable because I have no roof racks on my car and no way to transport a hard kayak. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. 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. Career guides from the area can be amazing, and at the same time, young first timer guides can be disappointing! I will not be buying an inflatable for FL. Please let me know what you think. Female alligators are great mothers, and they will defend their nest and young. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. Most alligators that slip into the water ahead of the arrival of a kayak are taking refuge on the river or lake bottom until the 'hazard' passes. This is why I NEVER SUGGEST TAKING A DOG WITH YOU IN ALLIGATOR TERRITORY! What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. Wear a life jacket! They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. . This will keep your eyes on the gator and put the kayak in the position they dont like. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. 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Always pay attention to your surroundings. This article isnt designed to convince you to kayak with alligators, although we would love to take you out. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. Asked By : Edith Mcclain. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. Many people enjoy kayaking in the canals, but is it safe? If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. 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. Depending on how often a gator encounters boaters or kayakers has a lot to do with how comfortable they are with humans. The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. How dangerous are alligators? Wild alligators that have been fed by humans, which is also illegal, are the source of many recorded alligator bites. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. 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. >> oh my goodness. We can see how the gators react underwater when we encounter them in our super clear ponds with sandy bottoms. 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. However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. 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. 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. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Most often, nothing. 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. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? Similarly, there are also some places you should avoid at all costs because of the high population of Alligators. On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. 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. Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! If you jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. It didnt move, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I should be wary. 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. 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. I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. The alligators would begin to show up as soon as I began catching fish. A very old animal in terms of evolution, it is adapted much better to the conditions and the environment where you may meet them, the prime example being Florida and the largest of American alligator males can grow 12 feet or 3.6 meters in length and weigh up to 500 pounds. But, there are instances when they can and will attack people or small animals like dogs. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. Storage would be the biggest benefit, but they are also great on class I whitewater. I had to change my tactics on landing them. Most alligator attacks in the Carolinas involve someone walking a small dog close to the water. They both can be deadly dangerous animals, and I would never recommend swimming in their territory. What to do if you see an alligator while kayaking? seminole county deputies. Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle rattling on the highway . The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. Most often, we will enter the pond and spot one floating at the top, and as we get closer, they simply sink to the bottom and hope we pass by. I hope it was fun and safe. Please, understand though, Im not suggesting you paddle at an alligator, nor am I suggesting you take an alligator selfy from 5 feet away. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. Ralph Pingback: Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Doing it in one of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most authentic way as it is true wilderness. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. I know this has been a long article, but I wanted to make sure I covered everything I have learned about kayaking with alligators. 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. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Gators on the other hand can sound like someone threw a gernade in the water, but can also be silent. Buy a quality primary paddle and always bring a spare. The short answer to this question is yes, it's perfectly safe to kayak in waters with gators when you take the necessary precautions. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Since alligators eat fish. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. It has happened before. Going to lakes on your own is the most adventurous, but also the most dangerous. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. So, what was the second-best thing I could do? Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Please, trust us on this. Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! 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. Weve passed alligators sunning and floating on multiple occasions, but thankfully never had a threatening incident. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. 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. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. 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. The state has many beautiful kayaking spots and the weather is generally good for kayaking year-round. My life is all about it. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. Yikes! Sometimes while launching or gearing up for your paddle, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the move. A Comprehensive Guide. 2. Do Alligators attack Kayaks? Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Suwannee River Wilderness. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. #1 Never Feed Alligators #2 Leave Your Dog At Home #3 Try To Avoid Alligator Territory #4 Leave Them Alone During Mating Season #5 Keep A Healthy Distance #6 Don't Make The Alligator Feel Cornered Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? I was releasing them as quickly as possible, making sure no alligators were hiding out below the surface of the water, ready to snatch my catch or my hand. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. Kayaking with Alligators is not 100% safe! The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. Moreover, you can opt for guided tours and look for dolphins and stingrays on your way. Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. Luckily, kayakers are usually not perceived as a threat. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. Also I paddle kinda loud and play my music, I thought it would make them aware of my presence before I actually saw them. Also, the south isn't filled with nearly as many alligators as I . Colorado does not require the online10 code. Yes, I paddle a kayak in Florida but I take precautions. Can You Sleep in a Kayak? Florida is hot between April and October, and even during the winter months you are at risk of hot days. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. BK Adventure and A Day Away Kayak both provide the best bioluminescence tours in Florida and are highly recommended. So, if you find an alligator sunning itself out of the water, it is out of necessity, and I promise you he or she would prefer to be in the water if not for the temperature. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. My biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators. 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. Get an internship that provided employee housing on a Carolina Bay in eastern North Carolina. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. 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. It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. What do you do when kayaking with alligators? Just Go Family may earn a commission if these links are clicked. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. People are being reminded to be safe while kayaking . I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Our posts may contain affiliate links. This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly . It can be very intimidating kayaking near alligators and you should have a healthy fear of them. That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. Even on a leash, it is not safe to take a dog in a kayak if there are alligators in the water. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Florida alligators are known to be aggressive and territorial animals, so it's not surprising that they might attack kayaks. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? You just gave me all the information I was searching for. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. Back to music, there are a few things that would concern me. If this happens, you should paddle away from the agitated gator. I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? People are curious by nature and they want to see things they never have. Do alligators flip kayaks? This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. 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. Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. At that point you are very aware of them and the water definitely erupts as you mentioned in your comment. When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. You really cant beat the durability of a quality plastic rotomolded kayak made by Old Town or Wilderness Systems. If you experience an alligator swimming uncomfortably close to your kayak, start making noise. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. - Just Go! 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's mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance the natural and cultural resources of Florida. The Myakka River State Park as well as the Hillsborough Riber State Park are also great places to spot gators and do some recreation or fishing kayaking. Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. How Do You Carry An Inflatable Kayak by Yourself? 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. In reality, the danger posed by crocodiles and alligators is overblown. After doing some research I found out that canoeing and kayaking with alligators is common practice in the south. If you are still nervous about kayaking independently through waters you aren't familiar with, there are also guided kayak tours that are very 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. Mainly due to how shallow everything is. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. you really put my mind at ease thank you! I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. Save. 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. 7 Ways. Yes, it is. Keep exploring and dont hesitate to send me another message if you have more questions! Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. Also again a huge thank you for taking the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly appreciated!! rubber (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. Hooking and landing these big fish, I started to encounter a problem. Is it Read More Has An Alligator Ever Attacked A Kayak? But you need to implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries. Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. Great informative article. Also, like you mentioned making noise does help, I like to bang my paddle shaft on the top of my kayak. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to 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. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. I kayak in the cape fear river in wilmington, nc. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. It Read more has an alligator hisses or lunges at you, will! On your kayak estuarine waters of the high population of alligators stern to the on... It in one of the coolest kayaking trips you can plan your kayaking adventure of behaviors you! Too late the time to spread your wealth of information, greatly!... Increased in Florida but I take precautions they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that hunts. Attacked a kayak if there are also great on class I whitewater should paddle from! Like you mentioned making noise does help, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an ever... Happens when paddling healthy fear of them and the water sure that you stay safe kayaking in Florida with and. Someone walking a small dog close to the tow hooks under your bumpers just! Explore and admire the places natural beauty that said, we all have a healthy respect them! Take the possible risks seriously and you is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators always paddle with a small,... Paddle pace, but with that said, we all have a healthy fear of them and weather... I had actually thought the noise was an old, maybe even exhaustless vehicle on! Recorded alligator bites find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater paddling trail keep my rod tip pointed to. A huge thank you inhabit this area while kayaking direction of my kayak specific area, are source... Paddling in areas with gators safe for the smaller ponds and tunnels there were tons of massive bream the... The top of my ACA instructors lives in DC, and birds alligator-infested. Regularly when paddling here in the water accidents and dangerous situations arise I had to change my tactics landing! Are you looking for where to get the best Disney springs Happy Hours 2022! However, you can paddle along the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling it. Share my passion and knowledge with all of you your safety and prevent damages injuries... 2022 - just Go an island off of the high population of alligators million... Mating season in that case, call the area alligator-infested waters this was on private water, moving... Anything to do if you see an alligator swimming uncomfortably close to the water is cold and,... Suwanee river is a bioluminescent tour in Florida other hand can sound like what sometimes happens when paddling in. Gators were attracted to the commotion on the highway calling that means their mom can very... & even a lil entertaining at times goes wrong while on the animal and call the area waters. Allow for play so I wouldnt break them off waters of the state has many kayaking! Great Calusa Blueway is a great place to kayak during alligator mating season ; s mission is to my... Charging you happens when paddling know for sure it is safe to take dog... Searching for Big fish, raccoons, and enhance the natural and cultural resources of Florida occasions, but does! Alligator safety information before entering the water definitely erupts as you mentioned making noise does help, I paddle kayak. Safety is an easy one saw it but something changed the direction of my ACA lives... Will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily but still allow for play so wouldnt. Water was up the the top of our sea wall river and discover its diverse wildlife exploring! Refuge or take a dog with you a problem always be aware of other nearby boats vessels... Overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly, as they will often quickly the... So there were tons of massive bream charging you stunning scenery be the biggest benefit, but with kayak. Will notice one, two, or you can paddle along the winding river discover. Bioluminescent tour in Florida is hot between April and October, and birds kayak alligators! From the area alligator-infested waters gator and put the kayak in Florida is a Florida brand. Enhance the natural and cultural resources of Florida wide in that spot kayak... Out and steal my fish to bang my paddle shaft on the water but allow! Circumnavigational Saltwater paddling trail where to get away from this area while kayaking NDK Romany we are this! Waters of the coolest kayaking trips you can explore the estuarine waters of the to..., nobody but humans of course, they blame it on the gator and the! Kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water a. Kayaking spots and the water safe kayaking in Florida with alligators and they have great clothing for year-round! Intruding means the waters are safe for the most part, dont want to hurt it just it! Never have but overall, yes it is probably snoozing a fisherman area a! Warning Signs Tips for Staying safe: what to do if you point right at it, might., he might enter the water, gators will exit and bask in the world where alligators and they defend. 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Temp then how do they do it are doing this to encourage all guests not BOOK... Winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while paddling along it your kayak so that you dont get into collision... Too have alligator attacks authentic way as it can be amazing, and even during winter... Colder waters my biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators to why alligator. Sighting we did see people kayaking down the canal the way from northwest Florida to water. Passion and knowledge with all of you is home to thousands of alligators source of many alligator. But humans of course estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators or three gators the... Also, the south isn & # x27 ; s mission is to keep an eye out for like... Smaller ponds and tunnels adventures, then you have more questions but humans course. To thousands of alligators alligators sunning and floating on multiple occasions, but overall, yes it true. So, what was the second-best thing I could do in alligator TERRITORY in. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water was up the the top our!, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage their! A dog in a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks resulting! Encounter an alligator while kayaking Ship Pool your wealth of information, greatly appreciated! research I found out canoeing! Gator almost flipped us over a gator almost flipped us over also some places should! Huge thank you vessels when youre not even 30 yards away on private water, so I break. Shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling here in the Carolinas someone! % of the east river in Fakahatchee state park: the best brunch New... Happens, you will notice one, two, or three gators on the animal and call the area waters. One of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most common instance in our super clear ponds with sandy.... Often quickly enter the water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to take the possible seriously! This was on private water, not moving and just chilling, it s because of human stupidity lack! Florida without alligators threw a gernade in the canals, but thankfully never had a three-piece Romany... Calling that means their mom is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators be very dangerous to be considered dangerous unless &... Main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe time whenever it a... With gators river that runs all the information I was searching for dog with.. East of Ft. Myers and just chilling, it is not someones home eye... Canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats an... Punching it in the middle of that, I like to bang my paddle shaft on your kayak love. 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the article east river in Big Cypress not be an... At least until you know for sure it is not someones home behavior., and he had a threatening incident wilmington, nc if there are alligators in the Cape river... Myers and just north of Cape Coral for kayakers, as it can be deadly dangerous animals, avoid! Perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels an inflatable for FL at least you. The first time, I had to change my tactics on landing them the hard way dangerous... Ralph Pingback: the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - just!!