Evening Shark Fishing Charter - St Pete Beach
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Evening shark fishing trip targeting 612 foot apex predatorsHeavy tackle and large reels provided for battling big sharksCatchandrelease charter focusing on Blacktip, Bull, and Sandbar species
When the sun starts to drop and the beach crowds thin out, that's when the real fishing begins. This 6-hour evening shark charter puts you right on the sand at St Pete Beach, targeting some of the Gulf's most powerful predators as they move into the shallows to feed. Starting at 6 PM, you'll be fishing into the night with heavy tackle and serious gear designed to handle sharks in the 6-12 foot range. Perfect for small groups of 1-4 anglers who want to experience what it's like to battle apex predators from shore.
This isn't your typical day on a boat - we're doing this land-based style right from the beach. You'll be using big circle hooks, heavy sinkers, and robust tackle that can handle the power of a bull shark making a run. The evening timing is key because sharks are most active during low-light periods, moving closer to shore to hunt for stingrays, tarpon, and other baitfish. We'll get your lines out with fresh bait and teach you the patience that comes with shark fishing - it's all about waiting for that screaming drag and then holding on tight. The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, with plenty of time to learn proper technique between bites. All equipment is provided, from the heavy-duty reels to the wire leaders that prevent bite-offs.
Shark fishing from shore requires a different approach than most inshore fishing. We use heavy conventional reels loaded with 80-pound braided line and circle hooks ranging from 12/0 to 16/0 depending on the target species. The key is getting your bait out past the sandbar where sharks cruise looking for food. We'll deploy multiple rods with different baits - fresh cut mackerel, stingray wings, and bonita chunks work best in these waters. Sinkers range from 6-12 ounces to hold bottom in the current and surf. The rod holders are essential since you'll be waiting for that telltale slow pull that indicates a shark has picked up your bait. When that happens, it's all about letting the fish hook itself with the circle hook before setting the drag and starting the fight. Proper catch-and-release techniques ensure these magnificent predators swim away healthy after photos.
Shortfin Mako Sharks are the speed demons of the bunch, capable of hitting 40+ mph and making spectacular jumps when hooked. These sleek predators average 6-8 feet in our waters and are most active during summer months when water temperatures climb. What makes makos special is their incredible fight - they'll test every knot and connection on your tackle with blistering runs and acrobatic displays that'll get your heart pumping.
Blacktip Sharks are probably your best bet for consistent action, especially during their winter migration from December through March. These 4-6 foot sharks are aggressive feeders and will hit cut bait hard, often hooking themselves before you even know they're there. They're known for their spinning jumps and are perfect for anglers new to shark fishing since they're manageable but still put up a solid fight.
Tiger Sharks are the heavyweights that every angler dreams about - these apex predators can reach 10+ feet and have jaws powerful enough to crunch through turtle shells. They're more common in warmer months and prefer deeper water near structure. When you hook a big tiger, you'll know it immediately from the steady, powerful runs that seem to go on forever. They're called the "wastebasket of the sea" because they'll eat almost anything.
Lemon Sharks are regular visitors to our shallow flats and are particularly active at dusk and dawn. These 6-8 foot sharks are easily identified by their yellowish color and prefer sandy bottom areas where they hunt for crabs and small fish. They're strong fighters that make long runs but tend to stay near the bottom, testing your ability to work them up from the depths.
Bull Sharks are the bruisers - thick, powerful, and aggressive. These sharks can handle fresh and saltwater, so they're common near inlets and river mouths. Bulls in the 7-9 foot range are typical catches, and they're known for their bulldogging fights with short, powerful runs that'll strain your back and test your tackle. They're most active in warmer months and are opportunistic feeders that will hit almost any bait.
Evening shark fishing from St Pete Beach offers a unique combination of accessibility and genuine big-game fishing that you won't find anywhere else. The land-based approach means no seasickness worries while still giving you shots at serious sharks that most anglers only dream about. Whether you're looking to introduce someone to shark fishing or you're a seasoned angler wanting to try a different approach, this charter delivers the goods. The 6-hour timeframe gives you plenty of opportunities as different species become active throughout the evening and into the night. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so check the weather and plan accordingly. Book your evening shark adventure and get ready to experience why Run For The Reels has built a reputation for putting anglers on memorable fish right from the beach.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are some of the most active sharks you'll encounter around St Pete Beach. These stocky fighters average 4-6 feet but can reach 8+ feet, and they're known for their aggressive strikes and spectacular jumps - sometimes right into the boat if you're not careful. They patrol shallow waters and artificial reefs, usually in 30-100 feet of water, making them perfect targets for our evening charters. Best action happens spring through fall when they're feeding heavily on mackerel, sardines, and croakers. They put up a scrappy fight with plenty of runs and aerial displays that keep everyone entertained. While they can be timid at first, once they smell blood or chum, they'll compete aggressively for bait. My go-to trick is using oily sardines or fresh mackerel chunks on circle hooks - the stronger the scent, the better your chances.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the ultimate power package - thick, muscular sharks that can handle both salt and freshwater, making them year-round residents in our area. These stocky fighters average 8-10 feet but females can push 12+ feet and 500 pounds. They prefer shallow coastal waters, channels, and areas where fresh water mixes with salt, often cruising in 20-80 feet of water. Best action happens during warmer months when they're most active, though you can catch them year-round here. They're aggressive feeders with incredibly strong jaws that deliver bone-crushing fights with multiple runs. What makes them special is their adaptability - they'll hunt anywhere from deep channels to surf zones. Fresh eel is my secret weapon for bulls because of its high oil content and tough skin that stays on the hook. Cut it into 6-inch sections and let the scent work its magic. Just remember - these guys mean business once hooked.
Negaprion BrevirostrisLemon sharks are one of the more predictable species we target, thanks to their preference for shallow, sandy areas and mangrove-lined shores. These yellow-tinted sharks typically run 6-10 feet and are surprisingly curious, often circling the boat before committing to bait. They love warm, shallow waters under 100 feet, especially around grass flats and nearshore structure where they hunt for rays, crabs, and smaller fish. Spring through summer gives you the best shot when water temperatures climb above 75 degrees. While not the fastest fighters, they're persistent and will make several strong runs before tiring. They're actually pretty smart - they'll follow scent trails and investigate sounds, making them responsive to chumming. Fresh stingray or crab chunks work well, but my favorite local trick is using live pinfish on a long leader. Let it swim freely near the bottom and be patient - lemons will take their time inspecting your offering.
Isurus OxyrinchusThe fastest shark in the ocean, makos are pure adrenaline on a line. These sleek predators average 8-10 feet but can hit 12+ feet and pack serious muscle. You'll find them in open water near the surface, especially around temperature breaks where baitfish gather. They're aggressive feeders that'll take just about any bait, but their speed and acrobatics make them legendary fighters - expect multiple jumps and line-screaming runs. Summer through fall gives you the best shot when water temps are warmest. The meat's actually pretty good eating too. Pro tip: when you hook one, tighten your drag gradually as they tire - they'll use every trick including trying to wrap your boat to break free. Keep everyone clear of the gunwale because these guys can leap 20 feet and land right in your cockpit.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the garbage disposals of the shark world - they'll eat just about anything, which makes them easier to hook but also unpredictable fighters. These massive predators can reach 12-16 feet and weigh over 1,000 pounds, with distinctive dark stripes that fade as they age. They cruise deeper waters during the day but move into shallower areas at night to hunt, making our evening trips perfect timing. You'll find them around reefs and drop-offs where they ambush prey using their camouflage. Summer and fall offer the best opportunities when they follow warm currents closer to shore. The fight is more about power than speed - they're strong, stubborn, and will test your drag system. Fresh tuna, mackerel, or bluefish work great as bait. My local secret: cut your bait into big chunks and let it sit on the bottom - tigers prefer an easy meal over chasing something down.
Florida