Tarpon are opportunistic feeders. They get far more credit then they deserve as picky eaters. Sure tide, moon, etc can all be players, but much like sharks they will eat the scraps of the sea. Fish carcasses, filets, etc. If you are struggling to catch tarpon on live bait, I recommend you try soaking dead baits. We use kingfish filets and often we outfish the live bait fleet.
So next time you are out fishing, don't be afraid to use dead bait. Have paitence and get tight!