Indian River Kayak Fishing — 4-Hour Rentals from Manatee Cove
Paddle from Manatee Cove into the Indian River Lagoon for four hours of kayak fishing among mangrove channels, manatees, and chasing redfish and trout. This practical rental gives you a single fishing kayak, PFD, anchor, and optional rod rental to make the most of Merritt Island’s productive estuary.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a Florida saltwater fishing license
Required for anglers 16 and older; keep it on your person in a waterproof sleeve or on the rental paperwork.
Check the tide and wind before heading out
Incoming tides concentrate fish near cuts; strong afternoon sea breezes can make returns difficult.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat
Sun reflects off the lagoon; long exposure increases risk of sunburn even on overcast days.
Secure gear in a dry bag and anchor when fishing
Anchor and stay low-profile near mangroves to avoid spooking fish and to protect fragile shoreline vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the narrow mangrove channels just north of the main cove at lower tide for concentrated redfish action
- •Early morning flats behind the sandbars attract sea trout before the wind picks up
Wildlife
- •West Indian manatee
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
The lagoon faces pressures from development and nutrient runoff; stay on marked launch areas, avoid dragging boats over seagrass, and follow local catch-and-release recommendations to protect the estuary.
The Indian River Lagoon has supported fishing communities for centuries and was an important resource for indigenous tribes and later settlers; Merritt Island’s growth accelerated with 20th-century citrus and aerospace industries.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the channel mouth looking back toward Manatee Cove for composition with mangroves
- • Over a shallow flat at low tide to capture fish wakes and seagrass patterns
- • A low-angle shot from the kayak toward the rising sun to silhouette mangrove outlines
What to Bring
Personal flotation device (PFD)Essential
Provided with rental but wear it at all times for safety.
Waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, license, and spare clothes dry while on the water.
Reef-safe sunscreen and polarized sunglassesEssential
Protects skin and cuts glare to better spot fish in shallow water.
Lightweight fishing gloves and lip gripper
Protects hands when handling toothy fish like tarpon and improves grip on wet gear.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes—Florida requires a saltwater fishing license for anglers 16 and older; carry proof in a waterproof sleeve or on your phone.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes—life jackets are included with the rental and must be worn while on the kayak.
Can beginners rent rods and tackle?
Yes—rod and tackle rentals are available for a small fee plus a refundable deposit; basic rigging help is offered.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect manatees, dolphins, and a variety of shorebirds; sightings of sea turtles and ospreys are also common.
Is the launch accessible by car and public transit?
Yes—the launch is at Manatee Cove County Park reached by car; public transportation options exist nearby but check local schedules for first/last-mile logistics.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start; trips may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Merritt Island, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—comfortable paddling for several hours and maneuvering while casting; not suitable for those with serious back or heart conditions.
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