Are there any gators to worry about when your kayaking?

Cindy Andrews | Aug 31, 2018 | Category: State park in Port Richey, Florida

Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park - All questions

Address: 8737 US-19, Port Richey, FL 34668, USA

Trish A | Aug 31, 2018

I'm an avid kayaker. I have kayaked for years around alligators, some nearly as big as my boat (12.5). Just paddle on ahead, don't touch them. If they follow you a bit just keep steering slightly away from them in the same direction you were already going. When you leave their territory, they'll turn around. Always poke the bottom all around you before stepping out of your boat for any reason in the shallows.

Ellie Petrov | Aug 30, 2021

Hi! Owner of Salty Dog Kayak Rentals inside the park. It is actually all salt water. We are fed from the Gulf and the salt springs which are all salt obviously. We have seen one gator sitting on the land all the way at the end of one of the routes. I'm happy to point out the spot when you get there. We have never had a problem with him/her!

Kristin L | Aug 31, 2018

It's Florida, we do have them. If you happen to see them, leave them alone and they leave you alone. No molesting the gators. Enjoy your kayaking trip and sighting, fishing and pack your sun screen!

Tina | Aug 31, 2018

?? I didnt kayak.

Becky K | Aug 31, 2018

People should expect any and all fresh water in Florida to have gators. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park has a mix of fresh and salt water. Although I am terrified of getting in water with gators, I have kayaked here. I wouldn't jump in and swim since there could be gators, but I didn't see any and had a great time kayaking.

TERESA WRAY | Aug 31, 2018

Yes, there are alligators in the park. They primarily stay in the water. Just keep your distance and they will not bother you. HAVE RESPECT FOR WILDLIFE, NOT FEAR!♥️

J R | Aug 31, 2018

We were told that people do come across gators while kayaking there. We opted out. Not from Florida, so very unfamiliar on handling that situation.

Jeanette Pallitto | Aug 31, 2018

I haven't seen one

J B | Aug 31, 2018

Nope

Dawn Dankner | Aug 31, 2018

No, however we have seen water moccasins.

Patricia L | Aug 31, 2018

I do not know honestly I have not gone kayaking there.

Jessica Pietrowski | Aug 31, 2018

No

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