10,000 Island Wilderness
Florida Everglades
Everglades Kayaking - Paddling Secrets in Southwestern Florida
There are many things you expect to see in Florida's Everglades
National Park, such as dolphins, manatees, and a variety of
beautiful birds. What you may not expect to find is a great
destination for paddling! The Ten Thousand Islands is one of the
secrets of the paddling world. You may think of alligators when the
word 'Everglades' come up in conversation. That's not the case in
this part of the park. Here you are out of the swamps and grasslands
and you are on the coastal mangrove area of the Gulf Of Mexico.
The name "Ten Thousand Islands" is actually a bit deceptive. You
will find hundreds of islands in the area, but many aren't suitable
for pulling up the kayak and lying out on the beach for a break.
They are actually just mangroves with nothing but water and millions
of mosquitoes to greet you. Yet, there are some great islands with
beach shorelines, and a great view of a beautiful gulf sunset.
Get a waterproof NOAA marine chart before leaving out on this
Everglades kayaking trip. This is an area filled with channels, bays
and creeks that can easily get you lost and confused. You will need
a good chart and of course a compass to make sure you can get back
on the right path if something happens. Of course, you would do well
to have the navigational backup of a GPS unit as well. If you don't
have good navigational skills, make sure to bring someone along who
does.
Do you enjoy fishing as much as kayaking? If so, Chokoloskee Island
is a great home base for a relaxing week of fishing and kayaking
together. This is a laid back, quiet island with tons of fish from
Redfish and Snook to Tarpon and Catfish. There are more varieties of
fish to be caught from this island than could possibly be listed
right here. Along with that selection is a wide selection of
opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. You have the option of
trips on the water that can last for several days or load your Yak
on to a 'mother ship' and get transported to the out islands and
keys or find that secret mangrove tunnel that only the locals know
about. Here is a nice Snook Josh caught near Chokoloskee Island
You are heading into a sub-tropical environment that could have some risks. Remember this is not an Orlando theme park, its the real thing. Protect yourself from the intense sun and the many mosquitoes by wearing longer pants and shirts, hats, and of course a good sunscreen. Keep a good supply of water and snacks onboard.
Freshwater is not native to this area of Florida and it can be a
very important comodity. Everyone coming on your trip will
need to bring a gallon of water per day spent in the area. Since all
the water in the area is saltwater, all you will have access to is
what you bring with you.
Sand flies and mosquitoes are regulars in this area. You will need
netting that blocks both of these pests and adequate amounts of
insect repellent sprays, candles, and other products. If you go in
the winter, this may not be as big of a concern.
The Ten Thousands Islands is an exciting place to visit if you have the navigational skills necessary and come are prepared for the physical exertion of Everglades kayaking. You will be roughing it in some of the wildest and most remote areas of the state, so it can be physically demanding at times. So, get in shape and get ready to enjoy the beautiful wilds of Florida and the 100,000 Island Wilderness!