WEATHER AND WATER CONDITIONS

• Summer storms can approach quickly and without warning, often in the afternoon. Check the local weather forecast before heading onto the water, and be sure that you leave sufficient time to return by early afternoon if you are traveling far from shore. Heed all small craft advisories when going out into all non-inland coastal water.
• Some of the launch sites and surrounding areas are tidally influenced. Check local tide charts before leaving.
• Currents can be very strong near the passes separating the barrier islands. Please use caution when crossing these passes.
• When traversing open water, water conditions may become rough quickly and canoes and kayaks may become swamped with water. Please use caution when paddling to such places at Anclote Key and ensure that your craft is seaworthy enough to travel the distance safely.
• Pinellas County has a large number of motorized boats. Motorized boat traffic can be heavy, especially on the weekends. Please use caution when crossing a channel; do so quickly and safely.
• Five short blasts on a whistle or horn is the international signal for an emergency.
  

REQUIRED GEAR

Florida Law requires that a US Coast Guard Approved personal floatation device (PFD) be readily accessible and wearable at all times for each person in a watercraft. All persons under the age of 6 years are required to wear a PFD at all times when on the water.

• A marine whistle, bell or horn approved by the US Coast Guard must be within reach at all times in case of emergency.
• A Coast Guard Approved 360-degree white light is required of each boat for use after dusk.
• A Florida fishing license is required for persons aged 16 and older.
• All canoe motors must be registered with the State of Florida.
• All canoes longer than 16 feet must be titled.

ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT SUPPLIES

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