Kayaking Gains Popularity

With its many waterways, inlets, canals and rivers providing accessibility to the Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it is no wonder that the Sarasota area is becoming obsessed with kayaking! Imagine leaving the world of motors and crowds behind, and peacefully gliding along silent natural water trails that immerse you in the natural surroundings. Sarasota's waterways offer mangrove islands and grass flats that harbor snook, redfish and sea trout; the peaceful waters leading out to Sarasota Bay are a haven for wading birds like the ibis, the sandhill crane and the great blue heron; while
the Myakka River is a freshwater home to an abundance of alligators, and whose marshes, oak and palm canopies offer shelter to Florida's native species.

Once relegated to calm backwaters, today's kayak adventurers venture out into the Gulf of Mexico for "kayak fishing" and cruise the Gulf of Mexico between Lido and Siesta Keys, recognized as some of the best deep water kayaking in the region. Kayaking, whether mild or adventurous, is a sport that can be enjoyed by young and old; even the physically challenged. Aficionados of the sport speak passionately about settling into a kayak and becoming one with the water and the natural surroundings, quite literally immersed in the experience.

A recent announcement in Sarasota County punctuated the growing popularity of the sport - the County has purchased 8 acres adjacent to popular Shamrock Park, in Venice, for the sole purpose of building a kayak and canoe launching area. Similar launch sites are popping up everywhere around the Sarasota area - although in many instances, a "launch" is as simple as placing your kayak into the water, virtually anywhere!

Near Casperson Beach Park, on Bed Lake there is a location that allows for you to launch your kayak and enjoy a cool afternoon on the other side of the Waterway Park. This is a great way to keep out of the heat during the summer months in Venice. If you don't own your own kayak, there are kayak rental stores near Casperson Beach Park that normally rent out kayaks by the hour as well as by the day.

There are many opportunities in the Venice area  to rent and purchase canoes and kayaks; as well as all the equipment you may need whether paddling through the mangroves or sport fishing from your kayak. These vendors often will provide maps and water trail information; guided tours and assistance. Here are just a few resources if you would like to try your hand at kayaking, and experience old Florida, in a most intimate way.

William C. True, Broker, GRI
 

All rights Reserved VeniceFlaMLS.com 2007

William C. True, Broker, GRI
 

All rights Reserved VeniceFlaMLS.com 2007