We’re a full-service kayak and kayak accessory retail shop specializing in guided eco-tours and fishing trips. We also provide rental, repair and installation services. We take great pride in providing customers the tools and expertise they need to have a memorable experience. We’re committed to making sure your trip is as seamless as possible, and by staying true to this creed, we not only have satisfied customers, but new found friendships.
Harry is a Tallahassee native who grew up on the banks of Lake Talquin fishing, boating, hiking and camping. Those pastimes ignited a passion that carries on today. Now as a guide and ambassador for the state of Florida, Harry takes great joy in showing people the beauty that Tallahassee and the surrounding area have to offer.
SHOP MANAGER
Lara has found herself living in a great many places from Memphis to Tokyo, taking in all the beauty of the world around her! Never one to shy from a new adventure, in 2014 she made her way to Tallahassee and now calls it home. Since moving to North Florida she has taken advantage of the abundant experiences nature has to offer. In 2021, she discovered kayaking and our beautiful springs and hasn't looked back.
Originally from Arlington Heights, Illinois, Kurt grew up loving the outdoors. He's no stranger to paddleboards and kayaks, as he raced both for four years. After graduating high school, Kurt moved to Colorado where he started rock climbing and skiing; eventually guiding mountaineering tours in the mountains of Colorado. He moved to Tallahassee in 2020 where he has been learning the North Florida waters ever since. Now as shop manager at HSO, he enjoys talking everything paddle sports.
Scott is a passionate recreational kayaker, angler, and expedition paddler. He has led multiple trips exploring the Suwannee river, everglades, and many other Florida waterways. Four years ago he discovered the wild and scenic paddling of the panhandle and knew he had to share the experience with others to encourage people to get outdoors and reconnect with nature.
The entire trip was beyond our expectations from the moment we hopped in the van! This is the best way to experience the great outdoor activities Tallahassee has to offer! Looking forward to our next trip! Thanks HSO!
Just returned from Florida on what was intended to be a photography trip and ended up being the experience of a lifetime... Whether you want to float or fish, Harry Smith, HSO is the real deal. I’ll definitely be returning.
If you are in Tallahassee and you don’t get out on the water with Harry, you are making a HUGE mistake. Even if kayaking isn’t your thing, it will be after a day with Harry. You can’t go wrong booking a tour. Stop thinking about it and do it. Do it now.
I contacted Harry for a kayak trip with our group of friends down the Wacissa, and it was awesome! The equipment and kayaks Harry uses are high quality, and having a professional guide to show us all of the unique and hidden springs along the river is priceless. The entire trip was beyond our expectations from the moment we hopped in the van! This is the best way to experience the great outdoor activities Tallahassee has to offer! Looking forward to our next trip! Thanks HSO!
I don’t usually write reviews but felt compelled to write this one. Just returned from Florida on what was intended to be a photography trip and ended up being the experience of a lifetime...Whether you want to float or fish, Harry Smith, HSO is the real deal. I’ll definitely be returning.
We hike all over the panhandle but to experience a “trip back in time” from the vantage point of a kayak is unparalleled. Harry kept us smiling the entire time! I cannot wait to go out again! We’re already thinking ahead of future trips and who we can invite to have our friends and family experience such a memorable adventure.
Harry Smith Outdoors always delivers a great experience. On my most recent trip, Harry put us on some quality sea trout and reds. Everyone caught fish and many had personal bests. Whether you want a beautiful relaxing paddle or a memorable fishing trip, Harry’s knowledge and experience will get you where you want to be. Can’t wait to book another trip soon!
If you are in Tallahassee and you don’t get out on the water with Harry, you are making a HUGE mistake. He’s super friendly, very helpful, and exceedingly patient–which was good, as I was a rather fumbling almost-first-timer on the water. Even if kayaking isn’t your thing, it will be after a day with Harry. You can’t go wrong booking a tour. Stop thinking about it and do it. Do it now.
