Thats why I carry a Tarus Judge with me when I canoe around here in the river or ox bows. I think the 45 would do it assuming I had the chance to use it. Had gators try to get fish when inshore salt water fishing, were in a large boat and not a kayak or canoe. Never had one mess with me in fresh water--seen a lot of large ones. I admit its a bit worrisome when I see them go under. Long as I can see them I feel more comfortable; yet you know they are there and underwater in any ox bow you go in. True of the river too but more disbursed.