Public Access Question (Kayaking) (Sarasota, North Port: home, to buy, safe)

[CTC]

Hi All
I have a question about accessing water ways in FL.Here in Montana we are blessed with great public access to rivers/streams.

Basically if there is a bridge on a public road crossing the water way (public easement), and it is a safe spot one can put in there.

I am asking because we are trying to buy a home in North Port which is a few blocks from a nice canal, and a bridge crosses it. It would be great to be able to put in right there. Not sure how it works in FL.

Thanks

CTC

[bbronston]

I can't speak to the specific location you are talking about but, in general, as long as you are not trespassing on someone's property without permission, and you are allowed to park on the right of way, you can launch pretty much anywhere.

[SoFLGal]

Hmmmm...I'm not sure on the correct answer on this. I would think if it is public property you could launch there but I'm not sure it the city would see it the same way.

This is a really good website that I use all of the time to check the launch points in the area: Paddle Guide, Sarasota’s Kayak and Canoe Trails Sarasota county also has a pretty handy book the has tons of good info on kayaking and has the launch points in there as well. This number 941-861-5000 is listed at the bottom of the website. You might want to give them a call to see if they could answer your question.

[bbronston]

I have heard of a situation up in Pinellas where there was a well established launch location but guys were parking along the right of way or just off it. It was public land. A bunch of cars got towed so I guess it depends on how tough they want to be about it. However, most of the best launches I know of are pretty much the same sort of thing and I've never been bothered.

[CTC]

Thanks!
I appreciate the info

[gettinoutofjersey]

i would say it is safe to assume that its not the launching thats the issue. its the parking. thats the way that people of affluence keep non water front owners off "their" beach. they just ensure that there is no parking therefor no one on the, whats really public beach. and if all the property abuts one another with no public walkway then how do you get to it.

there is a boat launch at manasota beach area. it is on the intercoastal side of the key. there is a small beach close to the bridge that alot of people launch kayaks from and there is plenty of public no charge parking.