The current becomes surprisingly powerful wherever the channel constricts. Even with assistance from the electric motor, I occasionally find myself working against the flow. The narrow passages concentrate the water into a steady pull that reminds me the Suwannee River begins here, draining one of North America’s largest freshwater wetlands toward the Gulf of Mexico.
On my left, laying there fully exposed in the morning sun, is a huge alligator. The thick, floating mats of peat easily support even the weight of these large reptiles. As long as they are not disturbed, these gators will lay basking for hours and hours. In fact, I have often photographed the same alligator, in the same spot, in the exact same position on my return paddle up to eight hours after photographing them the first time!
Okefenokee Swamp Journal, October 14, 2025
Okefenokee Photography Project by William Wise 
LOL, I find them in the same spot all the time too 😂😂
LikeLike
I’m glad that your chill alligators stay put, when you are paddling and I was pleased to learn ,that peat mats can bear their weight.
LikeLike
Hi William.
Another nicely filmed and written article. Appreciate the details you put into your writings.
God Bless!
LikeLike