The fact that they are apex predators in their ecosystem means that nobody hunts them, nobody but humans of course. 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. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. With all of the above information, we now better understand why an alligator might attack a kayaker. Dropping your paddle shaft on the top of your kayak is the absolute best way to make noise, that sound will carry under water a long distance. Definitely difficult to answer those questions. Even if they swim at you, they are hopefully false charging. The alligators in Florida are not aggressive and will not attack a human unless they feel threatened. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. 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. Launch Points: Pineland Monument Park. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. The Suwannee is perhaps Florida's most well-known river. 2. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . They obviously dont want to eat you. I use a hard plastic kayak. Anyway, it sounds like the gators might be sinking to the bottom, and when you approach, you are right on top of them. Finally, if you are fishing on an inflatable kayak. Thank you so much for the info! If it seems like they are waiting for a scrap you need to be extra careful. That is hard to say, but that does sound like what sometimes happens when paddling here in the very shallow waters. The first time, I passed by very close, not realizing it was an alligator until too late. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge or take a guided river tour. I wouldnt cross large bays in it, but its perfect for the smaller ponds and tunnels. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. June 16, 2022. 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. 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. Yes! 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 jump right in the middle of that sheep battle, those sheep might very well start charging you. Mullet jumping sound like belly flops and snook strikes sound like hollow claps. Guide for DIYers, 10 Best Downrigger Release 2023 Different Tension Settings. I hope it was fun and safe. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. While climate change is a whole other story, one in which the forces of nature are again going to cause havoc to everything human, nature in the general sense of the word is also dangerous. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. rubber Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? 1- DO NOT FEED THEM For a good reason, it is restricted feeding alligators. Gator at Wakulla Springs, FL. A kayaker exploring a section of a North Carolina river found more than he expected when an alligator slammed into his boat. This also reminds me of the East River in Fakahatchee state park. Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. 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. At any time we could see a 500-pound manatee, 100-pound tarpon, or ten-foot alligator all in two feet of water! Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. I saw 10+ gators but I also had 2 or 3 moments where everything was quiet but then the water erupted with splashing right in front of the kayak in a quick loud burst that scared me badly each time. We encounter numerous alligators on a daily basis. 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. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Yes! For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. The next day we left so don't know if it returned. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. Awesome article! Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. this is super important, listen up. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. 1. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. We kayak very often right from our backyard and after the tropical storm the water was up the the top of our sea wall. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? So, what was the second-best thing I could do? How dangerous are alligators? You know water sports you know me! Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. First encounter with a wild gator & its still very memorable! Fisherman will often clean their catch of the day at the local boat ramp, then throw the waste in the water. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. . 2) Train Like An Astronaut At The Kennedy Space Center. Basically, the gators were attracted to the commotion on the top of the water. Lastly, it is always great to push your limits and get a little out of your comfort zone. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? Yikes! 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. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). I maintained a steady paddle pace, but I also maintained eye contact through my sunglasses. Never saw it but something changed the direction of my kayak about 30. It is one of the things people know best about this American state. I had to keep my rod tip pointed closer to the water but still allow for play so I wouldnt break them off. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. There were lots of narrows, sharp turns, tall grass, cypress trees, tiny islands and thick clusters of water plants going through. This was on private water, so there were tons of massive bream. If you hear baby alligators calling that means their mom can be nearby and that can be very dangerous. 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. However, following the steps outlined in this article can minimize your risk and stay safe. As . So grab your kayak and explore Florida's waterways today! Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Is Destin Florida safe to visit? If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are "No swimming" signs up, then do not swim. No need to get close and disturb them. Winter is the best time to go kayaking in Florida. Yes, they are perceiving your kayak as an unknown, potential hazard and they're going to a different location where they feel safer. The heaviest Florida alligator weighed in at 1,043 lbs taken from Lake Dora. My first regular encounters with alligators started the summer after my junior year in college. Flip flops or watershoes are appropriate to wear when kayaking in Florida, as when getting in and out of the kayak your feet will get wet. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? - Just Go! We actually stand up in them to spot the manatees. 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. - Just Go! Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go. We waited a few seconds and paddled through but I was definitely scared he/she could be right under us. CNN . Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Is Tandem Kayaking Easier than Solo Kayaking? Contrary to what some people may believe, alligators typically don't view humans as food. If you are looking for a great place to kayak in Florida, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is an excellent choice. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. 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. Rarely would I pose for pictures with my hands halfway in the water, and I definitely wasnt reviving them with my hands in the water. 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. Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Pingback: Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! 5 Reasons to Know. 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. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. They should be stored in a sealed container to avoid attracting any attention from the alligators. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Very helpful. 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Book Online and take 10% off, Use code online10 at checkout. That seems to let anything around me know that Im there, and most often alligators will swim the other direction or sink to the bottom to let you pass. While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do occur and can be fatal. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Sure enough the park I chose to kayak with a friend this past Saturday had a gator warning sign posted next to the launch. That dark bottom and tannic water make it very difficult to see the gators once they sink. Are Kayaks Safe from Alligators? After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. However, the main question that arises is whether these inflatable kayaks are safe for the water bodies of Florida. Thank you. 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. 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. All rights reserved, It makes total sense that our customers would be afraid of these normally docile animals. 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. 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. Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? That very easily could be an alligator fight. 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. That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. Then, of course, they blame it on the animal and call the area alligator-infested waters. I loved it so much the first time that I bought my own the same week. "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. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! I will take a tour with Adventure Paddle Tours! To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. To stay safe kayaking in Florida, never confront or feed alligators, as they will change their behavior and approach kayaks more readily. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. If an alligator does grab you this might be enough to keep you afloat. Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? Yes, it actually happens! Some kayakers even carry a rubber mallet with them for this purpose. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. 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. I wouldnt recommend playing music, it lessens your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! 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. They have teeth, they are mean-looking, and they look very similar to the well-known saltwater crocodiles in Australia and Africa. Since alligators eat fish. If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. At one point it was trying to get onto the dock. This is why it is so important not to ever feed an alligator! Its always difficult to give answers to guests asking about specific scenarios or animals. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! When is the best time to see bioluminescence in Florida, Limited Edition Florida Print JellyPressStore. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. Now, lets consider what the American Aligator eats. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. This guy (or gal?) Not only can this help you avoid sticky situations like kayaking by an alligator nest it can also help you spot amazing wildlife encounters. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. Well, you could easily say alligator out of water too, except an alligator can still breathe just fine. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. This is why they will often quickly enter the water when you approach them. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. The when-to and when-not-to point your kayak at an alligator was particularly informative to me. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. 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. With that said, I still pay close attention when approaching that area. Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. We provide them with alligator safety information before entering the water. 3. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. There are no boat launch facilities on the Tampa Bypass Canal, but it is possible to hand-launch a canoe, kayak or other small boats from parks along the canal. They make everything more difficult for you and us. Doing it in one of Floridas 30,000 freshwater lakes is arguably the most authentic way as it is true wilderness. 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. At least until you know for sure it is not someones home. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Keep in mind that kayaking during alligators' mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when fishing. 7 Ways. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. I would definitely recommend hitting a gator on the head with your paddle if they are coming at you and close enough, but if they are able to bite your paddle, they will not let go and could pull you in. Does the Matanzas River have alligators? All participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets. Search no more! Certain springs around the state consistently attract large numbers of manatees, and the winter is really the best time to see manatees in Florida. Thank you Kyle! Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. How Do You Carry An Inflatable Kayak by Yourself? My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. Just lightly dropping it maybe 3 inches is enough to resonate a long distance. Stay inside the boat. The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. Thank you for volunteering for cleanup! If you are interested in one of our kayak tours please dont hesitate to book one today! Answer: Kayaking with alligators is generally a very safe activity. In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. A good thing about it all is that no alligator attacks without being unprovoked. This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Sometimes however, FWC says the small gators can pose a legitimate problem and must be addressed. The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Hey there kayak lovers! What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? If thats the case you need to pay more attention. Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. This means they are more apt to stay on the shore when you kayak by. If the gator swims directly at you, you should line the kayak to point directly at him, then back paddle. 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. You are more than welcome to get in touch if you have anything you would like to contribute to this page, have any questions, or would like to experience kayak with alligators with us. These things have evolved for a million years to fight, and they attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity! When you witness these types of behaviors, you need to stay cautious and aware. If we see this, we simple kayak on by. In that case, call the hotline at 866-392-4286. After all, they are capable of seriously injuring you or even killing you. 3) Snorkel & Explore Dry Tortugas National Park. 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. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. You may have noticed I said if you kayak with alligators and they arent moving or making noise, you are safe. We have all seen those crazy videos of wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested rivers in Africa. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. #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 1) Tour Everglades National Park. I paddle a surfski on the TennTom Waterway in Miss. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. Ive lived in South Carolina for 30 years and only started kayaking last week. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . I know this has been a long article, but I wanted to make sure I covered everything I have learned about kayaking with alligators. I contemplated getting an inflatable because I have no roof racks on my car and no way to transport a hard kayak. If you are knowledgeable and avoid breeding season, can it be safe? The fall is more comfortable for kayaking, so September is a highly recommended month. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs There are tons of alligators there, and the water is very tannic, with feet of detritus (rotting leaf matter) on the bottom. 1. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. The problem is these ponds might only be 6 deep! Does the Delaware River have strong currents? The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. >> the tail went on our kayak. Stay at least 30 feet away from alligators, as they can attack if they feel threatened or provoked. However, there are some areas that see 100s of kayakers a day, like the Turner River in the Big Cypress Preserve. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. 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. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time!

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