Evening Tarpon & Shark Fishing in Islamorada
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Evening tarpon and shark fishing charter for two guestsTarget lemon, blacktip, and bull sharks near shore watersFour-hour trip includes sunset views and expert guidance
Picture this: the sun's starting to dip toward the horizon, painting the Florida Keys sky in shades of orange and pink, and you're standing on the deck with a rod in your hands, waiting for that explosive tarpon bite. That's exactly what you'll get on this top-rated 4-hour evening charter with Eric Scoble Blackwater Charters. We're talking about some of the best inshore fishing in Islamorada, where the shallow flats and backcountry waters hold some serious silver kings and hard-fighting sharks. This isn't your typical tourist fishing trip – it's a real Keys experience that puts you right in the heart of the action when these fish are most active.
Your evening starts around 4 PM when the afternoon heat begins to ease and the fish start moving. Captain Eric knows these Islamorada waters like the back of his hand, and he'll position you in prime spots where tarpon roll and sharks cruise the shallows. The beauty of evening fishing is that you're working with cooler temperatures and active fish – tarpon especially love to feed as the light fades. You'll be fishing the backcountry flats, channels, and edges where the bottom drops off, using live bait and proven techniques that consistently produce bites. With just two anglers on board, you get personalized attention and plenty of room to work. The boat stays close to shore, so you're never too far from the mangroves and structure that hold fish. As darkness approaches, you might even catch the sunset right from your fishing spot – it doesn't get much better than that in the Keys.
Captain Eric rigs you up with heavy spinning gear and conventional tackle designed to handle big fish in shallow water. For tarpon, we're talking live pilchards, pinfish, or crabs depending on what's working that day. The key is presenting natural baits in the strike zone where these fish are actively feeding. Shark fishing calls for a different approach – we'll use wire leaders and chunk baits like bonito or barracuda to draw in lemon sharks, blacktips, and the occasional bull shark. The technique is all about reading the water, understanding tidal movements, and positioning your baits where fish are likely to be. You'll learn to spot rolling tarpon, work baits along mangrove edges, and feel the difference between a curious shark and one that's ready to eat. The captain provides all rods, reels, tackle, and bait – you just need to bring your fishing license and be ready to fight some serious fish in skinny water.
Tarpon are the undisputed kings of Keys fishing, and March through June is when Islamorada really lights up with silver king action. These fish average 80-150 pounds in our waters, with some real monsters pushing 200 pounds. What makes tarpon so special is their aerial display – when a big silver king goes airborne, tail-walking and gill-rattling just yards from the boat, it's a sight you'll never forget. They're incredibly strong fish that can peel drag for 100 yards on their first run. The best part about evening tarpon fishing is that these fish are actively hunting, moving through the shallows and rolling on the surface as they feed on baitfish.
Lemon sharks are customer favorites because they fight hard and show up consistently in our backcountry waters. These yellow-tinged sharks typically run 4-6 feet and are known for their aggressive nature and powerful runs. They love the shallow flats around Islamorada and are most active during evening hours when they hunt in water so skinny you can see their dorsal fins cutting the surface. Blacktip sharks bring the aerial excitement – these athletic fish regularly jump when hooked, spinning and throwing spray as they try to shake the hook. Bull sharks are the heavy hitters, thick-bodied brutes that test your tackle and your stamina with their bulldogging style of fighting.
This evening charter fills up fast, especially during tarpon season when anglers travel from around the world to fish Islamorada's legendary waters. Captain Eric's local knowledge and proven track record make this a world-class fishing experience that consistently delivers action. Whether you're targeting your first tarpon or looking to add some variety with shark fishing, this 4-hour trip gives you the best shot at success during prime evening hours. The intimate 2-person capacity means you get the captain's full attention and won't be competing with a crowded boat for fishing spots. Don't wait – the best fishing days book weeks in advance, and you don't want to miss your chance to experience what makes Islamorada the sport fishing capital of the Keys. Give Eric Scoble Blackwater Charters a call and secure your evening on the water.
Hit the waters around Islamorada aboard our expertly restored 18' Hewes Redfisher, a classic skiff that's been completely refreshed for 2023. This beauty packs a reliable 115HP Yamaha that'll cruise at 30 knots, getting you to prime tarpon and shark spots quickly while staying smooth in the shallows. The boat's designed for serious fishing - equipped with a fish finder to locate your targets, GPS for precise navigation, and radar for those evening runs when visibility drops. An onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold as you work the flats. Perfect for two anglers who want room to cast and fight big fish without feeling cramped. Whether you're battling a rolling tarpon or wrestling with a feisty blacktip shark, this skiff gives you the stable platform and mobility needed to make the most of your Florida Keys fishing adventure.
Islamorada