GETTING THE WITH BONEFISH

Bonefish are renowned for their speed, strength, and elusiveness, making them a prized target for fly fishermen. Known as “grey ghosts” for their ability to blend seamlessly into the sandy flats, these fish are typically found in shallow, tropical waters around the world, including the Caribbean, Florida, and parts of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. While bonefish can grow up to 16 pounds, most range from 3–6 pounds. Though not the largest fish in the world, they are, in my opinion, the strongest fish for each centimeter of length.

What makes bonefish truly unique is their feeding behavior. They venture onto the flats, often in ankle-deep water following the tides. When the tide comes in, they enter the flats, lagoons and mangroves to feed, and when the tide goes out, they return to deeper waters. A flat is a shallow plateau that rises from the sea, creating feeding grounds for bonefish when the tide is just right. Alongside other species I love to fish, like Tarpon and Permit, bonefish are attracted to the shallower areas. But the bonefish goes into much more shallow water. Many times, their backs are visible above the surface as they move across the flats. While I’ve also found them inside the tight mangroves, fishing for them there presents its own challenges. - The break off when you set the hook, launching into their signature torpedo-like runs.