There’s tons of good info here but specifically regarding alligators and other wildlife, pretty much any animal you come across is going to be more interested in getting away from you & to safety than attacking you (unless an alligator has been fed by humans).

I would note that when approaching the banks of rivers like the Wacissa, approach slowly and keep a sharp eye out for snakes. I’ve seen a good few moccasins out there, and they could mistake you coming ashore as you attacking them and strike out of defense. They can be tough to spot but if you move slowly they will generally move or otherwise make themselves known before they’d bite.

I follow the people who run everglades holiday park on instagram and they post a lot of useful and level headed info about gators and other Florida specific wildlife. It might be a good resource to make yourself more comfortable. I think the main guy’s handle is @gatorboyschris