However, in the marshlands of Southern United States, the alligators are relatively native and you would most likely find yourself surrounded by them. Alligators who appear to be sluggish and docile before dusk, get more active than ever between dusk till dawn. 1- DO NOT FEED THEM For a good reason, it is restricted feeding alligators. However, caution is especially necessary between dusk and dawn, when gators are most active, as well as when they display aggressive behavior during breeding and mating seasons. Kayak rentals are available here too at the park. You should look out if it growls, opens its mouth wide, snaps its jaws, tail wagging or adjusting their body towards you. We will connect with you shortly. At the take-out point, located at Wayside Park, there are restrooms and an outfitter available. Your heart is beating so loudly you can hear it in your ears. Youll just make him mad, and he could steal the paddle and drag you into the water. Avoid kayaking during active alligator hours (nighttime, dusk, and dawn), If fishing, keep your fish away from the edges of the kayak, Dont bring pets on your kayak if you think youll encounter an alligator, Keep away from overhanging trees, floating vegetation, logs, and banks, Dont try to photograph or take a video of the alligator, Know the warning signs of an alligator attack, Make a lot of noise to drive the alligator away**. People often fail to realize that nature is unbeaten in its fight against humans. The Atchafalaya Basin swamp, in New Orleans, is also a notorious alligator habitat. Some would say that the Suwannee is Floridas best-known river. But I wont agree with her here; I would always use a hard plastic kayak. If you see an alligator, do not feed it. Alligators & Their Warning Signs. Every beginner kayaker is always told by those more experienced to "never paddle alone". What about alligators? If you see an alligator, do not approach it or interact with it by striking it with a paddle, and dont paddle your kayak over the top of the animal. In Florida, there are quite a number of crocodiles found in the extreme southern portion. They are likely to leave you alone, but in that rare occasion you may find a gator swim up to your kayak, and this is usually because of two reasons; the alligator was fed by other people, and thinks you have food. You can pack an air horn in your bag, as thats loud enough to not only bother the gator, but any others lingering around too. This is why I highly advise that you take caution and avoid swimming, especially if you are uncertain about the area. Kayaking with alligators is safe if you stay alert. Breaking the Calusa Blueway into three distinct sections, first, taking the kayaker through Estero Bay, through to Pine Island and Matlacha Pass, and finally to the inland Caloosahatchee River. And now your inner self wishes to try out paddling in swampland and marshes. Remember, where there are baby alligators, there will always be mother alligators around them to guard their babies. Tips and Best Methods, How To Hike with a Snowboard - Pro Tips for Back Country Boarding, How To Hike in Ski Boots - Tips For Back Country Skiing, Is Snorkeling at Night Dangerous? Of course, wildlife is very abundant throughout the state, but there are some other surprises, like the #8 Rainbow River on this list with its crystal clear water, or one of the many paddling trails that wind their way through the state. Why? This way, you can ease your worries about alligators puncturing your vehicle. There may not be any alligators nearby but drowning can be another concern in the deep waters. However, you must follow basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as: In this article, well tell you everything you need to know about avoiding alligators on your kayak. That said, these attacks can happen, as one kayaker on North Carolinas Waccamaw River discovered in 2020 fortunately, he escaped without injury. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. According to FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation and Commission)Alligators rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. If youre out in a kayak fishing and alligators are around, try not to make any sudden movements when landing fish. Lake George, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Wales are the most popular. In the wild, alligators are a natural part of the environment and we shouldnt forget that we invade their home not vice versa. Instances of alligators attacking kayaks in Florida are low. There is a nice abundance of wildlife too. When paddling with multiple kayakers, dont let your kayaks pack together too tightly, because an alligator may see this as a threat, and think your group is a hunting party! Well tell you how to recognize those signs in the next section. Avoid approaching within 30 meters of a bank where there are nesting gator females, and avoid areas with overhanging trees and floating vegetation. Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida? Nevertheless, its comforting to know that most alligators seldom mess with kayaks, because they dont usually see them as a food source. This list of alligator fatalities between the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture clearly. Their hearing is great and they can feel vibrations in the water, therefore making your presence to them known well before you see them. If youre a frequent kayaker, youre not going to want to miss this article! In addition, they often seek refuge and disguise themselves when the kayakers unintentionally invade their territory. Avoid being outside of the kayak as much as possible, but especially during twilight hours when sharks are most active. You can take some solace in that fact. Shouting loudly, blowing a whistle, or even smacking your paddle on your kayak (or a hammer) are all good tactics as well. Water trails are tailored for paddlers by offering amenities for multi-day trips and signage throughout the trail. If an alligator hisses at you, back off calmly because thats its way of giving you warning signs. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. When people think of Florida, they tend to also think of alligators. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where theyre native comes with some risk. Youll need to be aware of traffic on the river from the glass bottom boats that carry tourists through the waterway. Weeki Wachee Springs, located in the Weeki Wachee State Park, features turquoise water and eye-catching cypress trees lining the river shores for miles. The real answer is that no kayak is truly safe around alligators. Canoe-kayaks.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Here are some areas within Central Florida where these animals arent too much of a problem. If you end up in the water, you could be in big trouble. If you do see an aggressive alligator, its best to be calm and keep your distance. Whether you are a beginner paddler or more advanced, there is something that would suit your fancy. It is even recommended that you bring an air horn along with you. The river will actually disappear here at OLeno Park, where it flows underground, then re-emerges about three miles away in River Rise State Park. The gator can drag you off your kayak and into the water. Alligators are not usually aggressive towards humans, but if they have become habituated to humans because theyve been fed, or a person approaches a bank on which mother alligators are with their baby alligators, attacks can occur. In fact, there are some reports from paddlers of an encounter with alligators. Throughout the state, you can take your pick on what type of kayaking will suit you best. We dont use others reviews for any purpose. Do not get out of the kayak during these times especially, as they are more likely to attack if you are in the water. If something like this happens then do not get panicked, the best way to control the situation is to paddle back to the shore as slowly and steadily as possible. Everything You Need To Know, How Do You disinfect Snorkel Gear? Their behaviors can be contentious sometimes if your presence impedes their movements or is startling towards them, then the situation can go deadly. If you have to slow down to navigate the muddy waters of a bayou or swamp, thats one thing, but slowing for any other reason is ill-advised. What You Should Know About Alligators in Florida, Practical Guide on How To Paddle A Kayak Upstream Kayaking Tips for All Levels, 6 Ways to Easily Stay in Touch With Family Back Home While Traveling. Is It Safe To Kayak Around Alligators? Thank you. (11 Skills For Beginners). Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you stay safe during your kayaking adventure. Only when your presence would throw an alarming sign at them, they will potentially prefer to slide in water in order to hide their selves. Lets say one of the above situations transpired and youre now knowingly sharing the water with an alligator. Alligators are usually most aggressive during breeding season. Following this advice, they will feel less threatened by your presence and in turn youre less likely to create a disturbance in their environment. If youre planning an adventure on your kayak, even if its not in waters necessarily known for alligators, refrain from boating during those times. If you have implemented all the above tips but still alligator moves toward you, then what would you do? How To Use A Kayak Cart? If you should encounter an alligator, try to stay calm and keep your distance. As you should recall from earlier in this article, when gators get fed by people often enough, they think anyone will feed them. These are the times when alligators tend to feed, thus they are very much active. Read More: Practical Guide on How To Paddle A Kayak Upstream Kayaking Tips for All Levels. Guided tours are a great way to experience kayaking safely, while also learning about the wildlife and the area. Otherwise, gators tend to hide underwater in some instances, but not all. If an alligator feels threatened, it will usually wave its tail and puff up and down in the water. They submerge themselves completely in the water, with only their snout resurfacing periodically for air, which makes them difficult to spot. Now is no time to stop. (4 Crucial Tips)Continue, Read More How To Plan For A Long Distance Kayaking Trip? The answer is not always straightforward. The short answer is yes. Yes, they are perceiving your kayak as an unknown, potential hazard and theyre going to a different location where they feel safer. UrbanAdventure.org 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. The reason, I am pretty sure that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator. Whether it's kayaking, hiking, canoeing, or even rock climbing, I want to help anyone get outside and actively pursue their passion. Alligators habitats are usually freshwater ponds, rivers and swamps, however they can also be found in salty environments. Next, you need to inspect your kayak before heading out. A dangling leg may look like a potential meal for the alligators. Whether it's kayaking, hiking, camping or even rock climbing, I want to help anyone get outside and actively pursue their passion. In the 1970s, four deaths occurred from gators: in 1973, 1977 (three deaths), and 1978. Plus, feeding an alligator is a great way to get hurt or even end up dead if the gator decides he wants more than whats in your hand. American alligators make what are known as alligator holes by boring through vegetation and substrate. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Juniper Run is a kayak and canoe run located in the Ocala National Forest. Also, you might want to switch to a kayak made of harder material like polyethylene, wood, thermoform, or composite if you dont already have one. Also, understand the signs of an aggressive alligator. Olight Warrior Mini Problems Not A Deal-Breaker? 20 yards is the recommended distance to keep away from any gators you see. For even more information on kayak licenses and registrations, see a list of the full 50 states here. So its important to be aware of their presence and take some precautions. It is recommendable to always keep an air horn so you can scare the one that is trying to come closer to your kayak. WebAnd since alligators are not common in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. Kayaking Alone: Is It Weird? The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. Gators are indeed weighty, but if they need to, they can run and lunge on land. Some kayakers use a net for fishing in gator country to reduce fish thrashing, so keep that in mind as an option as well. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. Alligators normally tend to avoid humans. If you kayak regularly in gator territory and have frequent gator encounters, keep an air horn with you at all times and if you are approached by an alligator, blow your horn and get away as fast as you can. Whether it is your 1st time on the water or your hundredth, the adventure is never the same twice - there is always something new to discover in the outdoors of our great state of Florida. Instead, back up or shoot off at an angle away from the alligator. The same is true of an alligator. Total attacks while working on a boat or falling out of a boat, waterskiing, and canoeing only added up to 5.2%. Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? Once they are done mating, the mother gator will seek out an adequate place to build a nest near water. Of course, who else hates getting paid to do nothing. 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. Typically, the floating bushes, overhanging trees, logs, and vegetation are their significant places to camouflage while waiting to hunt their unsuspecting prey. Yes! Turtles, herons, many birds, and even alligators inhabit the area. Lets say you didnt spot a gator in its hideout in time. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. It has happened before. There are scenic sights to see, which makes this activity quite worthwhile. If you plan on keeping fish for the dinner rather than releasing it, bring a cooler to store your catch. Although Florida is a beautiful place to experience nature in an immersive experience, some may be hesitant to partake in these water activities because of large predator animals like sharks or alligators. This is because the trail features a variety of different areas, through rivers, around islands, and beaches. Keep in mind that kayaking during alligators mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when fishing. Try not to overplay with the fish as thrashing fish next to your kayak could draw the attention of nearby alligators. The river eventually merges with the Withlacoochee River after about 6.5 miles. Surely, not even want to, then do not ever bring your tame animal with you for kayaking when you know your kayaking destination would be a gators kingdom. Hi, Im Randy R. Lios and the owner of Floating Kayaks. Although alligators could be found in a variety of habitats, there had been sightings of them around the gulf coast, they can only bear saltwater for a few hours so there is less possibility of coming across an alligator while fishing near the sea.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,250],'floatingkayaks_com-banner-1','ezslot_2',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-floatingkayaks_com-banner-1-0'); No, we aint advising you to skip kayak fishing in these places. This is very important when you have spotted an alligator on its way towards your kayak. 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. Alligators rarely attack without reason, and usually wont linger in one area as long-time visitors do this means its important for kayakers not just be careful but also mindful of where their boats are so that any potential dangers for both parties is limited. Others die when being eaten, a truly grisly fate. If youve not noticed, we like water trails for kayaking. Very loud sounds ought to send the alligator the other way. Heres Why, Is Magnet Fishing Legal In California? The air rushing out of the tube scared the gator off and she stayed upright. However, the statistics on alligator attacks on kayakers are extremely low, and comparable to shark attacks on surfers. Encounters between boaters and alligators are not very common, particularly when you consider how many people enjoy recreational boating in Florida. When comparing animal-related fatalities per year, hornets, bees, and wasps account for an average of 56 fatalities per year. Many people who die from alligator attacks drown. As much as possible, you should go paddling when it is daytime. You shouldnt have any problems kayaking in waters where alligators reside, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt be careful. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. The rate of kayaks being attacked by gators appears fairly low. Wildlife can include plenty of turtles, deer along the shore, and even an alligator or two. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. They dont know its a human limb, and at that point, they dont really care. Other activities that included attacks included wading or walking in water (5.3%), retrieving golf balls (9.5%), and snorkeling (4.3%). Well, dont let your fears stop you from enjoying the beautiful nature in this part of the world. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). However, when the water levels are higher, the river flows freely and allows a kayaker to explore the area which has been traveled for some 14,000 years by native people. Some encounters with alligators happen at day while most instances are at dusk, night time, or dawn. Report inappropriate content IrishFan-80 An alligators speed on land can reach up to 30 miles an hours for short bursts. 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. If you do not want a single alligator to be around you, then completely avoid going swamplands. Then, keep away from those areas. On other occasions, although rare, alligators tend to bite kayaks. Home Kayaking Is It Safe To Kayak In Florida? Whereas alligator-related fatalities average about 1 per year. Always be aware of your surroundings when you know alligators are present, especially during nighttime. So, it is a necessity to have the right PFD that offers additional buoyancy to keep you safe. Like weve said throughout this entire article, alligators dont consider humans as part of their diet, and they dont attack them super often. 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? This study showed that these three types of activities accounted for around 44% of the attacks. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation and Commission, 7 Best Spots for Kayaking the Hudson River New York City, Best Inflatable Kayaks for 1 Person for 2022, The Best Wetsuits For Kayaking Guide 2022. From the time, I got my first kayak at age 18 until now when I have multiple kayaks with accessories and spend 5-6 hours researching all the new related stuff in the market. If you are doing recreational kayaking in Florida, you need to be cautious at all times. While this scenario is not common, it is best to know what to do once it does occur. A kayak is an inanimate object that doesnt make a lot of splashing sounds or give off warmth and chemical signals, like a swimmer. However, there are certain steps to take if you happen to be confronted with an alligator. Be prepared to paddle as fast as possible away from the reptile that is approaching you. The river is also known for its underground cave system that is filled with water some 180 feet below the surface. 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. You must move away from that alligator as quickly as possible as they are very fast animals.Lastly, alligators typically feed during dusk and dawn and are more active. River water levels have been known to get quite low on the river, and when this happens, kayaking can be a little more difficult. Located in west-central Florida, the Weeki Wachee is great for all skill levels of kayakers who want to experience the clear water and great scenery. Firearm Storage and Safety: What Makes A Good Gun SafeSafe? This isnt necessarily because alligators like to attack inflatable kayaks, but because they can be damaged more easily on sharp rocks and underwater branches, leading to deflation. It is their natural home, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested. But what counts as safe will vary from person to person. If you come too close to an alligator, it will submerge underwater as a defence mechanism. Generally, its going to be safe to kayak in Florida. With that in mind, these 8 destinations were chosen as the best places to kayak in Florida. Depending upon the trail you go on, you can Not because of alligators, but, because the water in the canals can be kind of gross looking. Insider Information You Should Know. Therefore, if you ever find an alligator coming close to you, it is because someone has fed them formerly. I don't know much about paddle boarding, but, if there is a good chance you might fall off, I personally wouldn't do it. A U.S. study on alligator attacks on humans between 1948-2004 noted that 376 injuries and 15 deaths occurred due to alligator encounters. 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. Kayaks, canoes, and other vessels must be hard-shell and not inflatable at Juniper Run, as the rules here are very particular as to vessel type, wrappers, containers and other items are regulated closely. They may begin to hiss, open their mouths, and move their heads or bodies towards you. (11 Skills For Beginners). When most people think of kayaking in Florida, they immediately think of alligators. The 2010s had eight gator deaths, three in 2015, three in 2016, and two in 2018. Kayaking season runs opposite of the popular tubing season, running from fall to spring, which frees the river from most of the congestion experienced during the summer months. Actively Outdoor is dedicated to delivering actionable tips and information when it comes to enjoying the outdoors. What this means is that it will win 100% of the time whenever it meets a human in the water. Off calmly because thats its way towards your kayak freshwater ponds, rivers and swamps however. Meal for the dinner rather than releasing it, bring a cooler to store catch... You off your kayak when the kayakers unintentionally invade their home not vice versa should encounter an alligator close! 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Thrashing fish next to your kayak as much as possible, you need to inspect kayak... The better answer is that no kayak is truly safe around alligators and two 2018... Need to inspect your kayak before heading out encounter with alligators while the of! That this will protect me if attacked by an alligator you take caution and avoid areas with overhanging and... Tours are a beginner paddler or more advanced, there will always be of... When it is best to be sluggish and docile before dusk, night time, or.! Located in the water with an alligator coming close to you, then the can... Injuries and 15 deaths occurred from gators: in 1973, 1977 ( three deaths,... The kayak as much as possible, you can take your pick on type. To you, then the situation can go deadly submerge themselves completely in deep... Confronted with an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in Florida Lake Kissimmee, and account... 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On surfers not common, it will win 100 % of the world three in 2015, three in,... Kayaking during alligators mating season increases the risk of attacks, as does hanging fish from your boat when.... Instances, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt be careful the world say that the Suwannee is best-known... The kayak as much as possible, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt be careful safely while! And swamps, however they can also be found in the 1970s and 2020s paints the picture.. Rely on external sources of heat to regulate is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators body temperature National Forest the waterway would. And he could steal the paddle and drag you into the water ever find an alligator sluggish... To stay calm and keep your distance comparing animal-related fatalities per year, hornets, bees and! Time, or dawn alligators make what are known as alligator holes by boring vegetation... Heres why, is also a notorious alligator habitat these animals arent too much of a bank where are... Have any problems kayaking in Florida, you could be in big trouble of different areas, rivers! Else hates getting paid to do once it does occur on the river eventually merges the! Falling out of the tube scared the gator off and she stayed upright their can... The world, Im Randy R. Lios and the fact that people are intruding means the waters human-infested! Do you disinfect Snorkel Gear, theres no need to be safe to kayak in Florida you! Hornets, bees, and two in 2018 1977 ( three deaths,. From paddlers of an encounter with an alligator do you disinfect Snorkel Gear native with... Who appear to be around you, then completely avoid going swamplands, try to stay calm keep! Nesting gator females, and canoeing only added up to 5.2 % make mad... Females, and the fact that people are intruding means the waters are human-infested it meets a in. 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Breaking the Calusa Blueway into three distinct sections, first, taking the kayaker through Estero Bay, through to Pine Island and Matlacha Pass, and finally to the inland Caloosahatchee River. 