Evening Tarpon & Shark Fishing in Tavernier
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Evening inshore fishing targeting tarpon and sharks near TavernierCaptain Scott Grenfell guides up to 6 guests aboard charterSunset timing creates optimal conditions for multiple species fishing
When the sun starts dipping toward the horizon in Tavernier, that's when Captain Scott Grenfell knows the real action begins. This evening fishing charter puts you right in the thick of Florida Keys fishing at its finest - targeting monster tarpon and hard-fighting sharks as twilight sets the perfect mood. You'll be fishing prime inshore waters where these apex predators come to feed, and with Captain Scott's local knowledge, you're in for some serious rod-bending action. The boat holds up to 6 anglers, making it perfect for small groups who want personalized attention and plenty of elbow room when the big fish start hitting.
Captain Scott runs a top-rated operation that focuses on the evening bite when tarpon and sharks are most active in these waters. You'll launch from Tavernier and head to his proven spots where the depth changes and structure create perfect ambush points for feeding fish. The evening timing isn't just about pretty sunsets - it's prime time for these species to move into shallower water to hunt. Captain Scott provides all the heavy tackle you'll need, from sturdy rods and reels capable of handling 100+ pound fish to circle hooks and wire leaders that can stand up to shark teeth. The boat is set up specifically for this type of fishing, with plenty of deck space for fighting fish and all the safety gear required for handling these powerful species.
This isn't your typical light tackle inshore trip - you're going after some serious fish that demand heavy gear and proven techniques. Captain Scott uses a combination of live bait and cut bait depending on what the fish are showing preference for that evening. For tarpon, expect to fish with live crabs, pilchards, or mullet on circle hooks with 60-80 pound fluorocarbon leaders. The shark fishing involves fresh cut bait like bonito, mackerel, or barracuda on wire leaders that can handle their razor-sharp teeth. You'll be anchored over structure or drifting productive areas, letting the baits work in the current while staying ready for explosive strikes. The captain will coach you through the fight, especially important when a 150-pound tarpon starts greyhounding across the surface or a bull shark makes its first powerful run toward deeper water.
Tarpon are the crown jewel of Florida Keys fishing, and evening trips offer some of the best shots at these silver kings. These prehistoric giants can reach 6-8 feet and weigh over 200 pounds, known for their spectacular jumps and long, grinding fights that can last 30 minutes or more. Peak tarpon season runs May through August, but Tavernier waters hold fish from March into October. What makes tarpon so special is their fighting ability - they'll jump repeatedly, trying to throw the hook, then switch to deep, powerful runs that test every part of your tackle and stamina.
Scalloped Hammerheads are the most sought-after shark species on these trips, with their distinctive hammer-shaped heads and incredible speed. These sharks typically run 4-6 feet in local waters and are known for long, blistering runs when hooked. They're most active during summer months and feed heavily in the evening hours when baitfish move shallow. The fight is pure adrenaline - hammerheads are incredibly strong and acrobatic for sharks.
Bull Sharks bring the raw power that serious anglers crave. These thick-bodied predators can exceed 8 feet and 300 pounds in these waters, known for their aggressive strikes and bulldogging fights. Bulls are year-round residents but most active during warmer months. What sets them apart is their incredible strength and stubbornness - they'll dig deep and fight every inch of the way to the boat.
Blacktip Sharks are the speed demons of the group, famous for their acrobatic jumps when hooked. These sleek sharks typically run 3-5 feet and are incredibly fast, often jumping completely out of the water multiple times during the fight. They're most abundant from spring through fall and provide non-stop action once you find a school. Their aerial displays rival tarpon for pure excitement.
Grey Snapper, also called mangrove snapper, are the bonus fish that add variety to your evening. These smart, structure-oriented fish require finesse despite their smaller size, typically running 2-5 pounds with occasional larger specimens. They're year-round residents that feed more aggressively in the evening, and their excellent table fare makes them a customer favorite for those who want to take some fish home.
Captain Scott's evening tarpon and shark trips book up fast, especially during peak season when these fish are most active. This world-class fishing experience combines the excitement of targeting multiple trophy species with the expertise of a local captain who knows these waters like the back of his hand. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to test your skills against Florida's most powerful fish or someone ready to step up from typical inshore fishing, this trip delivers the kind of action that keeps anglers coming back year after year. The 6-person capacity means you'll get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to get on the rod. Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best evening fishing the Florida Keys has to offer.
This 2021 Tidewater Bay boat is built for serious fishing action in Florida Keys waters. At 25 feet with a powerful 300HP Mercury engine, she'll get you to the hot spots fast and handle whatever the evening bite throws at you. The spacious deck gives all 6 anglers room to fight tarpon and sharks without getting tangled up. When you hook into a bull shark or hammerhead, the wireless trolling motor lets you stay quiet and positioned perfectly. The fish finder helps locate structure where snapper hide, while the GPS keeps you on productive spots as daylight fades. An icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those epic battles. The multimedia system adds some tunes between strikes. Captain Scott knows these inshore waters like the back of his hand, and this boat gives him everything needed to put you on fish when the sun starts setting over Tavernier.
Carcharhinus LimbatusThese are the acrobats of the shark world, known for their spectacular jumping ability - up to 21 feet per second when hooked. They're easily identified by the black tips on their fins and typically run 4-6 feet, though bigger ones reach 9 feet. Blacktips are social sharks that often feed in groups, creating exciting action when you find a school. They patrol shallow waters around 30-100 feet deep, especially near reefs and structure. Evening trips work great since they're active feeders as light fades. Guests love their high-energy fights and frequent jumps. Despite their reputation, they're actually pretty timid until food gets involved. They have a taste for oily fish like sardines and mackerel. Pro tip: use a strong braided line and circle hooks - when these guys get excited in a feeding frenzy, they can really test your tackle. Fresh, oily cut bait works better than anything fancy.
Carcharhinus LeucasThese are the bulldozers of the shark world - thick, powerful, and built for business. Bulls average 8-12 feet and 200-300 pounds of pure muscle. What makes them unique is their ability to handle both salt and fresh water, so we find them in shallow coastal areas, canals, and brackish zones. They're year-round residents but more active during warmer months. Guests appreciate the raw power these sharks bring to the fight - no fancy jumps, just bulldogging strength that'll test your arms and tackle. They're opportunistic feeders that respond well to cut bait and chum. Evening hours are productive since they move into shallower water to hunt. My secret weapon is fresh eel - the high oil content and tough skin make it irresistible to bulls and it stays on the hook through their aggressive strikes. Use heavy tackle and be ready for a serious tug-of-war.
Lutjanus GriseusAlso called mangrove snapper, these copper-red fish are perfect for anglers wanting consistent action and great table fare. Most run 1-3 pounds inshore, but we'll find bigger ones in deeper water. They're opportunistic feeders that love structure - docks, mangroves, and rocky areas where they can ambush prey. Peak bite happens at dusk when they become more active, making our evening trips ideal timing. What guests love most is the excellent eating quality - white, flaky meat that's hard to beat. They're also smart fish that'll test your skills. During full moons they spawn heavily, creating hot action. My go-to trick is using live shrimp hooked through the tail, letting it sink to bottom then reeling up just enough to stay off structure. Keep your movements minimal - these fish are opportunists but they're not dumb.
Sphyrna LewiniThese distinctive sharks with their iconic "hammer" heads are one of the most recognizable species we encounter. Females can reach up to 8 feet and 180 pounds, while males stay smaller around 6 feet. They're naturally shy creatures, so spotting one is always special. During evening trips, they'll move closer to shore from deeper waters to hunt for stingrays, sardines, and squid. Their wide-set head gives them incredible sensory abilities - they can literally pin stingrays to the bottom and detect prey buried in sand. Best fishing happens during warmer months when baitfish are active. Guests love the challenge since these sharks are cautious and require patience. Pro tip: keep your bait presentation natural and avoid sudden movements - hammerheads spook easily but once hooked, they put up a memorable fight.
Megalops AtlanticusThe "Silver King" is what most anglers dream about when they think Florida Keys fishing. These prehistoric giants average 80-100 pounds but can reach over 200. They're famous for their acrobatic jumps - sometimes launching 10 feet out of the water at 35 mph. We find them in shallow flats, channels, and around bridges during warmer months, especially late spring through summer. They migrate through our area following baitfish. What makes tarpon special isn't the eating (they're full of bones and rarely kept), it's the pure adrenaline of the fight. Watching a 6-foot silver missile explode from the water never gets old. Evening trips are prime time when they move into feeding areas. Best tip I can give: bow to the king when they jump - drop your rod tip toward the fish to prevent the line from snapping tight. That little move saves more tarpon than anything else.
Key Largo