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Required By Florida Statute
- U.S. Coast Guard-approved, readily accessible personal flotation
device (PFD) for each occupant. PFDs must be worn by all occupants
under six years of age
- USCG-approved Marine whistle, bell or horn
- USCG-approved Visual Distress Signal - flag, SOS light, orange
smoke signals, or red flares (only required at night)
- A Florida fishing license is required for persons 16 years of
age and older
- All canoes with motors must be registered.
Taking time to plan your trip can significantly enhance
your experience. While most trips are without mishap, be aware and
prepared for potential hazards. Be aware of safety rules. Review
the information provided for the trail you plan to paddle. Obtain
water level information and weather forecasts to optimize your enjoyment
and safety.
- Check Marine Forecast - Heed any small craft
advisories.
- Know Current Conditions (Tides & Winds)
- Trip Length – Allow at least two miles
per hour paddling time under normal conditions.
- Leave a Trip Plan - Let someone know your plans,
where you are going, who is with you and when you plan to get
back.
- Canoes Not Recommended on Open Water Trails
- Sea kayaks with spray skirts are recommended equipment for open
water trips in Tampa Bay, the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW) and
coastal areas, especially in winter months when wind and waves
can be higher.
- Use Caution in Open Water - Stay close to shore.
Thunderstorms and lightning in summer months may approach quickly.
- Bridges – Use extreme caution near bridges.
Currents may be very swift. Watch for fishing lines.
- Boats – Watch for motorboats and other
watercraft. Stay to right and turn the bow (front) into the wake.
- Drinking Water – Bring at least 1 gallon
per person per day.
- Food – Bring food and gear in watertight
containers tied to your watercraft.
- Secure Car before Leaving - Place your car
keys in a secure place.
- Hypothermia - Warning signs include uncontrolled
shivering, slurred speech, lack of coordination and poor concentration.
Get victim into a shelter and remove wet clothes. Give fluids
and food until warmed. Hypothermia can occur in summer depending
on wind and rain conditions.
- Paddle in a Group or with a Buddy – The
last boat should be the most experienced paddler.
- Extra paddle per boat
- First aid kit, insect repellant, sunscreen, water
- Bow and stern lines ( 15’ long)
- Hand bilge pump and large sponge to remove water from boat
- Navigational aids – trail map, marine map and/or nautical
chart of the Tampa Bay area and compass.
- Hat and sunglasses
- Waterproof storage bags
- Appropriate shoes
- Binoculars (optional)
Observe all wildlife from a distance that does not
disrupt the wildlife being observed. Stay a distance of at least
50 yards (150 feet or 45 meters), and use binoculars or a telephoto
lens to secure a good view.
Feeding wildlife is illegal and causes animals to lose their natural
fear of humans. Feeding wildlife also increases their vulnerability
to injuries and death.
Seagrasses are a valuable and fragile part of Florida’s marine
environment and a nursery ground for marine life. Please use caution
at low tide, so as not to damage sea grass beds and marine life.
Pick up and properly dispose of fishing line and debris because
they can harm wildlife.
The natural environment contains and diverse ecosystems
that are as beautiful as they are fragile. Show respect by minimizing
your presence and impact in all ways. Take pride in the ability
to pass through an area without leaving any sign of your presence.
Never discard garbage or food scraps in a bay, river, creek or lake.
Avoid disturbing wildlife (and human visitors) by staying quiet
and not approaching too closely. Avoid disturbing plants and other
natural features so they remain for the future enjoyment of all.
Director
List
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