A lift gate latch is used in connection with a lift gate and a handrail on a boat. The handrail has a jamb, and the lift gate has at least one stile. The lift gate latch has left and right side walls spaced apart and disposed adjacent the deck of the boat. Reinforcing ribs extend along both side walls, which straddle the jamb and the stile. A transverse member and a base member extend between the side walls. A portion of the right side wall has a height lower than the left side wall height, so that the stile can pass easily over it when opening and closing the gate. Fasteners pass through holes in the side walls and attach to the deck. Bosses are juxtaposed with the holes. The fasteners and bosses strengthen the side wall adjacent each hole.