Night Shark Fishing - St Pete Beach
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
12-hour night fishing targeting massive sharks up to 1,000 lbsShore-based fishing for Tiger, Hammerhead, and Bull sharksAccommodates large groups up to 70 people with gear included
Picture this: the sun's setting over the Gulf, you've got heavy tackle in your hands, and somewhere out there in the dark water, monsters are starting to prowl. That's what you're signing up for with Run For The Reels' 12-hour night shark fishing adventure. Starting at 5:30 PM, this isn't your typical fishing trip – it's a full-blown shark hunt from the shore that separates the weekend warriors from the serious anglers. We're talking about fish that can stretch 6 to 14 feet and tip the scales at over 1,000 pounds. Yeah, you read that right.
This is land-based fishing at its most intense. While other charters head out on boats, we've perfected the art of catching giants from the beach – and trust me, it works. The trip runs through the night because that's when the big predators come hunting close to shore. You'll be fishing the surf and deeper channels off St Pete Beach, where the continental shelf drops off and creates perfect feeding zones for heavyweight sharks. We accommodate groups up to 70 people, making this perfect for corporate events, bachelor parties, or just a crew of friends who want to experience something they'll be talking about for years. The vibe is electric – imagine 70 anglers spread along the beach, heavy rods bent over, and the excitement building every time someone hooks up. All your gear, bait, and expert guidance comes included, so you can focus on what matters: landing the fish of a lifetime.
We don't mess around when it comes to equipment. Our arsenal includes the biggest, baddest reels you've ever seen – Penn Internationals, Shimano Tiagras, and other workhorses built to handle serious fish. We're talking 12/0 and 14/0 reels loaded with 80-130 lb test line, because anything lighter is just asking for heartbreak when a big tiger or bull decides to make a run. The rods are custom-built heavy action sticks that can handle the punishment of casting huge baits and fighting fish that outweigh most people. Bait selection is crucial for night shark fishing, and we've got it dialed in – fresh stingray wings, big chunks of bonita, and other oily baits that send scent trails way out into the Gulf. Circle hooks are the name of the game for both fish safety and hookup success. Our guides will show you the proper techniques for surf shark fishing – how to read the water, where to place your baits, and most importantly, how to fight these fish safely without getting spooled or worse.
Blacktip sharks are often the most active species you'll encounter during night fishing off St Pete Beach. These athletic predators typically range from 3-6 feet and are absolute acrobats when hooked – expect spectacular jumps and blistering runs that'll test your drag system. Blacktips move into shallow water to feed on baitfish, especially during warmer months from May through October. They're perfect for anglers who want consistent action and a fish that fights above its weight class. What makes blacktips special is their aggressive feeding behavior and willingness to take baits in relatively shallow water, often just beyond the second sandbar.
Tiger sharks are the apex predators that make this trip legendary. These massive fish can exceed 12 feet and 1,000 pounds in local waters, earning their reputation as the "wastebasket of the sea" for their willingness to eat virtually anything. Tigers are most active during summer months and prefer deeper water adjacent to the beaches, making night fishing ideal since they move closer to shore to hunt. When you hook a big tiger, you're in for a marathon fight – these fish are incredibly strong and stubborn, often taking hours to land. The distinctive stripes on smaller specimens fade as they mature, but that blunt head and massive girth are unmistakable signatures of one of the ocean's most formidable predators.
Lemon sharks bring both size and attitude to your night fishing adventure. These yellowish-brown sharks commonly reach 8-10 feet in local waters and are known for their curious, sometimes aggressive behavior around baits. Lemons are year-round residents but are most active during spring and fall months when water temperatures are optimal. They're ambush predators that often circle baits before committing, creating heart-stopping moments when you see that distinctive yellow shape in your headlamp beam. What sets lemons apart is their intelligence – they're quick learners and can become leader-shy, making them a challenging target that rewards patient, skilled anglers.
Bull sharks represent pure power and unpredictability in St Pete Beach waters. These thick-bodied predators rarely exceed 8 feet locally but make up for size with incredible strength and tenacity. Bulls are famous for their ability to tolerate fresh water, often moving into Tampa Bay and even up rivers, before returning to the Gulf to hunt. They're most active during warmer months but can be caught year-round, especially on night trips when they venture into shallow water. When you're fighting a bull shark, expect a slug-fest – these fish don't know when to quit and will use every ounce of their considerable strength to break free. Their broad head and stocky build make them unmistakable, and their reputation for aggression adds an extra element of excitement to every encounter.
Look, this isn't your typical half-day fishing trip where you're back at the dock by lunch. This is a serious commitment for serious anglers who want to experience what big game fishing is really about. Twelve hours on the beach, fishing through the night, targeting fish that most people only see in documentaries – that's what separates this experience from everything else out there. The fact that we can accommodate up to 70 people means you can bring your whole crew and create memories that'll last forever. Between the top-rated guides, world-class equipment
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are easy to spot with their signature black-tipped fins and sleek build. These guys typically run 4-5 feet, though we've seen some push close to 9 feet. They're fairly common in our shallow waters around 30-100 feet, especially near structure and drop-offs. What makes them fun is their acrobatic nature - they'll jump clear out of the water when hooked, sometimes right into the boat if you're not careful. They're also pretty social, so where you find one, there's usually more. Spring through fall gives you the best shots when water temps are up. They respond well to oily baits like mackerel and sardines. Pro tip: use circle hooks and keep steady pressure - their mouths are softer than you'd think and they'll throw the hook if you get too aggressive with them.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bruisers that make this trip worth it - thick, muscular sharks that average 8-10 feet and pack serious weight. What makes them unique is their ability to handle both salt and brackish water, so they show up in surprising places. They're ambush predators that prefer murky water and structure, making them perfect for our night fishing setup. The fight is pure power - no fancy jumps, just bulldogging runs that'll test your back and gear. Summer months are prime when they move into shallower waters to feed. They're not picky eaters, but fresh eel is hands down the best bait - high oil content and tough skin that stays on the hook. Bulls will hit cut mullet, mackerel, and even whole bream. Secret weapon: fish your bait right on the bottom and be ready for a freight train hit when they decide to feed.
Negaprion BrevirostrisLemons are some of the most reliable sharks we target, especially during warmer months from May through October. They average 6-8 feet but can reach 10+ feet, with that distinctive yellowish coloration that makes them unmistakable. These sharks love shallow, sandy areas and mangrove edges where they hunt for rays and smaller fish. What guests really appreciate is their consistent fight - not as acrobatic as blacktips, but they pull hard and steady. They're also curious by nature, often circling back to check out your setup. Lemons respond well to cut bait, especially stingray wings or fresh mullet fished on the bottom. They're structure-oriented, so focus on drop-offs and channels. The key with lemons is patience - they'll often mouth the bait several times before committing, so give them time to really take it before setting the hook.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the heavyweights you're really after on these night trips. These bruisers commonly hit 11-14 feet and can push 1,400 pounds, with big females reaching 16+ feet. They're named for those dark stripes that fade as they age. What sets them apart is their nomadic nature - they follow warm currents and can show up anywhere from 10 feet to over 1,000 feet deep. Summer and fall are prime time when they're cruising our warmer waters. The fight is something else - they're generally slow but can explode with bursts of speed that'll test your gear. Their bite is legendary too, with those serrated teeth that can cut through just about anything. Best bet is fresh mackerel, bluefish, or tuna chunks on heavy tackle. Local trick: let them run with the bait longer than you think - they're methodical eaters.
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