paddle

General Information

paddle

We invite you to review this information and we hope that it will help to answer some of the more frequent questions our customers have. However, there is no substitute for personal contact and we welcome your questions by phone or e-mail at any time.
See you on the river...

Outpost Days & Hours: March 1 through July 31 we are open everyday except Wednesdays. August 1 through February 28, we are open everyday except Mondays and Wednesdays.  We are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Our office is open from 9:00 to 5:00. Our last launch is at 2:00 for Trip 1 and 3:00 for Trip 2. Special holiday hours may apply and special arrangements may be made as needed.

Payments: We accept cash and credit or debit cards with the Mastercard or Visa logo. Checks may be accepted with prior approval.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted and encouraged. Advance reservations are required for all groups to receive the group rates.

Check In: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before any scheduled or desired launch or departure time.

Parking : Parking is included with any service or rental. We recommend that you not leave valuables in your vehicle. We can not be
responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen items. Larger vehicle and RV parking is usually available but you may wish to call to check on availability.

Liability: Canoe Outpost - Little Manatee River, Inc. Is a Florida corporation. We are independent of any other company using a like or
similar name. We make efforts  to ensure a safe experience however, there are inherent risks. Canoe Outpost-Little Manatee River, Inc., Its employees or agents can not assume liability for personal damages, loss or injury. You will be required to sign a waiver of liability at the time of your check in. You may download a PDF file of our liability release for review or to fill out before check in. Other terms and conditions apply. See details at the Canoe Outpost office. Florida Statute 327.54 applies.

Fishing: Fishing is permitted on all our trips. Freshwater fishing is primarily for large mouth bass, bluegill and blue catfish. Saltwater fishing at the mouth of the river is primarily for snook, trout, redfish and catfish.. You are responsible for adhering to local licensing and catch laws.

Prohibited Items: We do not allow any motorized boats, firearms, fireworks, chainsaws, radios or styrofoam items. We reserve the right to limit the amount of alcohol allowed on our trips and to refuse service to anyone.

Paddle Experience and Skill level: We do not make judgements as to your experience or skill level. When asked, we will try to give you an honest description of known conditions and hazzards so you may determine for yourself if the trip is appropriate for you and or your family.

Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to paddle. We have had kids as young as 6 take solo kayaks and folks up to 99 take canoes out and do fine. When asked, we will gladly give you an opinion as to the appropriate age for the trip and conditions. It is up to the individual or parent or gaurdian to make the final decision. There is however, a requirement that at least 1 person in the party be at least 18 years of age to be able to sign the rental agreements. Also, ALL PARTICIPANTS must sign our liability release. A parent or guardian must be present to sign the release for minor children even if the parent is not going on the trip. With prior approval, liability forms may be pre-signed.

Life Jackets (PFD’s): The Canoe Outpost recommends that all paddlers wear a PFD at all times when on the water. We adhere to Florida law which requires that all persons under 6 years old wear a PFD at all times when on the water and that all persons have a PFD available in the boat for use. For kids between 6 and 18 years old, we defer to and enforce the parent’s wishes. Adults may choose to wear the PFD or have it in the boat.

Alligators & Wildlife: Alligators and wildlife are present in all of the waterways we paddle on and do present certain risks and hazards. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and exercise good judgement in which activities you do and the conduct you use while on the waterway. Remember that it is illegal to feed or molest the wildlife.

Pet Policy: Responsible pet owners are invited to bring people friendly pets on a leash to the outpost and on paddling trips. Please do not plan on leaving any pets either in vehicles or on the property while you paddle. Paddling with your pet brings with it certain conditions. For instance: 1) You must be using a boat suitable for your pet’s size. 2) Pets on the water do increase the chances of interaction with wildlife including alligators. 3) While we love pets, we do prioritize humans. If any other customer is either allergic or afraid of your pet, we may ask that you wait for the next available shuttle or launch.

Return to the Home Page