Private Night Tarpon Fishingin Legendary Key West Harbor
Key West Harbor is known for giant tarpon. We leave before sunset and fish into full darkness when the bite is at its best. The darker it gets, the harder they feed.
Night tarpon fishing in Key West Harbor is unlike anything else. These waters are famous for big tarpon, and once the sun goes down, the harbor lights up with action.
We head out just before sunset and set up in the protected harbor where tarpon gather to feed after dark. As night falls, the bite picks up fast. The darker it gets, the more aggressive the fish become.
We change our approach based on the conditions. Some nights we troll heavy tackle with ballyhoo. Other nights we drift live crabs or pinfish through the strike zone. Tarpon fishing here means reading the water and adjusting — and that's what we do best.
3-Hour Night Tarpon Fishing Charter
$800 Fuel Included
This trip puts you on the water right at sunset. Your captain takes you to the best bridge and dock light spots based on the tide. You'll fish with light spinning gear and live bait, targeting tarpon as they move in to feed.
Tarpon use bridge shadows and light edges to ambush bait. After dark, baitfish swarm the dock lights, and tarpon stack up below waiting to strike. This creates some of the most reliable tarpon action in Key West.
What's Included:
- Private charter (priced per boat)
- All bait and tackle included
- Fishing licenses included
- Professional captain and mate
- Catch and release tarpon fishing
- Light tackle spinning gear
- Fuel included
4-Hour Shark & Tarpon Combo Fishing Charter
$900 Fuel Included
This is the best of both worlds. Start two hours before sunset catching sharks on heavy tackle. Feel the power of a bull shark or blacktip as the sun goes down. Then switch to tarpon fishing under the bridge and dock lights after dark.
Sharks give you raw power. Tarpon give you jumps and speed. Two different species, two different styles, and four hours of nonstop action. This trip is made for groups who want it all.
What's Included:
- Private charter (priced per boat)
- All bait and tackle included
- Fishing licenses included
- Professional captain and mate
- Shark fishing gear and tarpon light tackle
- Catch and release for both species
- Fuel included
Why Choose Night Tarpon Fishing in Key West?
Cooler Evening Temps
No more Florida heat. Evening trips are comfortable with cool ocean breezes. No sunburn, no overheating — just good fishing.
Less Boat Traffic
Most boats are back at the dock by sunset. That means quieter water, less pressure on the fish, and a better experience for your group.
Aggressive Feeding
Tarpon feed hardest at night. Tidal current and dock lights create a natural bait trap, and tarpon take full advantage of it.
Dock Light Action
Watching a 100-pound tarpon roll under a green dock light and crush your bait is something you never forget. It's sight fishing after dark.
Great Photos
Sunset departures and dramatic lighting make for amazing photos. Golden hour on the water and lit-up tarpon jumps are memories you'll want to frame.
Pure Light Tackle Fishing
Fighting a tarpon on spinning gear is as real as it gets. No heavy equipment — just you, the rod, and the fish.
Light Tackle Boats for Tarpon Fishing
Our night tarpon trips run on two boats built for light tackle fishing in tight spots:
Blue Cowboy
34' Contender — fast and nimble. Built to fish around bridges, channels, and structure where tarpon hang out.
Knotty Cowgirl
37' Contender — great for working dock lights and bridge pilings with precision.
Both boats have shallow drafts, strong engines, and open decks so you have room to fight a tarpon without anything in the way. Your captain picks the boat based on conditions and group size.
What's Included & What to Bring
Included in Your Charter
- Captain and mate
- All rods, reels, and tackle
- Live bait
- Fishing license coverage
- Cooler with ice
- Fuel
- Safety equipment
What You Should Bring
- Light jacket or long sleeves (it cools down)
- Bug spray (mosquitoes near bridges)
- Food and drinks (no glass)
- Camera for photos
- Comfortable, non-slip shoes
- Rain jacket (just in case)
Not included: Crew gratuity (always appreciated), food/drinks, transportation to the marina.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Charter Prices
Full pricing guide for all boats, trip types, and lengths.
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Tarpon Fishing Key West – Day & Night Charters →
Compare day tarpon, night tarpon, and shark & tarpon combo trips. Season guide, catch & release info, and booking.
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