Our Purpose
The Florida Professional Paddlesports Association (FPPA) is a network of professional paddlesport outfitters and retailers whose purpose is to promote paddling in Florida USA.
We help our members by making it easier for customers to find their business through brochure listings and mailings, co-op promotion, group representation, the FPPA website and various web links.
FPPA provides paddlesport industry representation to state agencies and committees, such as DEP, Enterprise Florida, Visit Florida, BAC, FWC and others. We make sure our members stay up-to-date on issues and regulation affecting their businesses.
FPPA works closely with PPA (Professional Paddlesports Associaton) and Visit Florida (state tourism marketing corporation) to promote paddling in the state of Florida. FPPA is a founding partner of Visit Florida.
FPPA continues to be the only state association representing professional paddlesport outfitters and retailers in Florida. It is an active Not-For-Profit Corporation in the State of Florida.
FPPA is funded solely by member dues and all functions of the organization are performed by member volunteers. Many of it's members are active in various organizations such as the Boating Advisory Council, Visit Florida, Sierra Club, ACA, Audubon, PIA, and many others.
Our Goals
To educate the public to the healthful and enjoyable benefits of paddling as a recreational activity.
To educate the public to the vital role that Florida's waterways play in the state's ecosystem and the importance of good conservation practices.
To promote and protect the unique aesthetic and recreational values of Florida's waterways.
To work with local, state and federal government agencies to track and insure that legislation, policies and proposals are a benefit to paddling Florida's waters and provide positive support for the paddling industry.
To work towards providing group purchasing power for items communally used by the paddling industry
To promote the safe and responsible use of all types of boats on Florida's waterways.
To promote paddling as a state-wide tourist activity.
Our Leaders
Regional Directors:
Northwest: Clifford & Debbie Gay / Econfina Creek Canoe Livery
North Central: Jim Wood / Canoe Outpost-Santa Fe River
Northeast: Ray & Jody Hetchka / Kayak Amelia Island
Central West: Mary Morgan / A Crystal River Kayak Company
Central: vacant, volunteer needed
Central East: Bill Kowalik / Adventure Kayak of Cocoa Beach
Southwest: Connie Langmann / Gaea Guides
Southeast: Colleen Guido / Blue Moon Outdoor Center
Our History
The Florida Professional Paddlesports Association was started in 1988. A group of outfitters that included the Canoe Outposts on the Little Manatee and Peace River, Katie's Wekiva Landing, and a couple of others got together and decided that a state association was needed, modeled after the National Canoe Livery and Outfitter Association (NACLO). It was originally called FACLO, Florida Association of Canoe Liveries and Outfitters but with the growth of kayak outfitters and retailers, the association was re-named FPPA to represent all professional paddlesport outfitters. NACLO has also changed names from NACLO to PPA, Professional Paddlesports Associaton.
Are you thinking about joining FPPA?
Professional outfitters and paddlesport retailers with an interest in offering services and goods to the paddling public are invited to join the Florida Professional Paddlesports Association (FPPA).
We meet two times times a year at one of our member's locations and enjoy paddling, food, friendship and the exchange of ideas on how to make our businesses and our sport more attractive to the public.
See member benefits
Already a member and need your log-in info? Contact outfitter@paddleflausa.com for your log-in info.
