Bonefish are considered to be among the world's premier fly gamefish. Check out our feature fishing locations Ambergris Caye Belize, Cayo Coco Cuba,
Bonefish (Grey Ghost)
Albula vulpes
Up to 18 lbs. Commonly 2 to 6 lbs.
Bonefish typically live in in-shore tropical waters, moving onto shallow mudflats to feed with the incoming tide, and retreating to deeper water as the tide ebbs. Juvenile bonefish may be observed in large schools of like-sized individuals with large mature fish swimming in smaller groups or in pairs.
Bonefishing isn’t like standing in a trout stream and targeting a fish that is picking off bugs as they float by. Bonefishing is hunting. You need to be constantly scanning the horizon for dark objects. The fish are in constant motion moving back and forth across the flats. It may look like they are moving slowly but they will be upon you before you know it. You need to be prepared! When your guide starts yelling, take a deep breath and focus. Don’t cast until you can see the fish. Know where you want to put the fly, slightly ahead or off to the short side. If you put the fly on top of him or beyond him the water will explode with the fish heading in the opposite direction. Be confident and nail the cast! Strip. Strip. Strip. When the fish hits do not pick up the rod. Continue to strip to set the hook. Strip set!
Tip: if casting from the deck of a flats boat, take your shoes off so that you can feel the line under your feet in case you are standing on it. Don’t forget to put lots of sunscreen on the tops of your feet!
Method
Walk & Wade or guide poled flats boat over sand flats. Usually requires long casts in often-windy conditions. Cast lightly weighted flies close to bonefish and strip to entice a take.
Equipment
Rods: 9 foot 7-8wt rods. Floating Bonefish/Saltwater Taper lines. 10 – 16 lb. fluorocarbon leaders. Learn to tie the Non-Slip Loop knot to tie fly to leader.
Flies: Size 2, 4, 6 or 8. Rubber leg Crazy Charlie’s, Crazy Charlie’s, Gotchas, Pugliesie Spawning Shrimp, Puff Shrimp, Bonefish Bitters, Crab flies.
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