There are multiple lakes very close to me where I want to practice flatwater paddle ups when I can’t make it the ocean. But the presence of alligators has me questioning myself a little.
I have kayaked and fished around gators for years and never felt worried. People kayak these lakes daily. But, the amount of splashing, the movement of the foil underwater, and the inevitable falls off the board have me hesitant.
I sailed past a 7’ one while learning wing control on a windsurf board, and it swam away. I dock started while one may have been around, but I would not recommend. I’d hate to imagine their reaction if you happen to hit one.
I have had them get very aggressive when wade fishing. I would not foil when knowing any larger than 5ft were present. Gators are very unpredictable. If they are hungry, they will try anything.