Bonefish

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Bonefish, highly prized for their speed and elusive nature, can be found in the coastal waters of Florida, offering anglers thrilling opportunities for sight fishing in shallow flats and backcountry areas. They are commonly encountered in the southern region of Florida, particularly in the Florida Keys and the Everglades National Park.
Florida: Bonefish can be found in the crystal-clear flats and shallow waters of the Florida Keys, including areas such as Key West, Islamorada, Marathon, and Biscayne Bay. They are also present in the expansive backcountry areas of the Everglades National Park, including Florida Bay and the Marquesas Keys.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Bonefish inhabit shallow coastal flats, sandy or grassy bottoms, and mangrove-lined shorelines. They are known for their ability to camouflage and blend in with their surroundings, making them challenging to spot. Look for bonefish in areas with clear water, minimal turbidity, and a mix of sandy and grassy bottoms.
Target bonefish in flats near channel edges, sandbars, and turtle grass beds. They tend to move with the tides, foraging for crustaceans and small fish. Bonefish are often found in water depths ranging from 1 to 3 feet, making them ideal targets for sight fishing.

PATTERNS

SPRING

Spring is a prime season for targeting bonefish in Florida. As water temperatures rise, bonefish become more active and feed more aggressively. Look for them in shallow flats and backcountry areas during incoming tides, when they move closer to the shore to feed. Sight fishing with small crab or shrimp imitations can yield success.

SUMMER

In the summer months, bonefish can be found in both shallow flats and deeper channels, as well as along mangrove shorelines. During hot days, bonefish may seek cooler waters in deeper channels or under mangrove shade. Fishing during early mornings or late evenings when the water temperatures are cooler can increase your chances of encountering bonefish.

FALL

Fall is another productive season for targeting bonefish in Florida. They continue to inhabit the shallow flats and backcountry areas, feeding voraciously to build up energy reserves. Look for them near grassy bottoms, sandbars, and areas with tidal flow. Sight fishing with small crab or shrimp patterns remains an effective method during this season.

WINTER

Bonefish can still be found in Florida's coastal waters during the winter, although they may be more challenging to locate. Look for them in deeper channels and basins with warmer water temperatures. During colder days, bonefish may move to deeper waters, but they can still be enticed with slow presentations using small flies or shrimp imitations.

Bonefish primarily feed on small crustaceans and baitfish, so it's important to imitate their natural prey. Fly fishing with small crab patterns, shrimp imitations, and baitfish patterns is the most popular method for targeting bonefish. Use lightweight rods, floating or intermediate fly lines, and fluorocarbon leaders to present your flies subtly. Spin anglers can use small jigs, shrimp imitations, or live bait like shrimp or small minnows.

Flats Fishing

How: Look for shallow flats with sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, or coral formations. Use polarized sunglasses to spot bonefish cruising or tailing in the clear water. Stealth is crucial as bonefish are easily spooked. Present your bait or lure ahead of the fish, allowing them to see it without causing alarm. Sight casting and accurate presentations are key to success.
Gear: Rods: Light to medium spinning or fly rods. Reels: Matching spinning or fly reels with smooth drags. Line: Weight-forward floating or intermediate sinking fly lines, or monofilament or braided lines for spinning. Leaders: 9-12ft leaders with 10-16lb fluorocarbon tippets for fly fishing, or fluorocarbon leaders with a test rating of 8-12lb for spinning. Flies/Lures: Shrimp or crab patterns for fly fishing, small soft plastics or shrimp imitations for spinning.

Fly Fishing

How: Bonefish are primarily targeted using fly fishing techniques. Present small shrimp or crab patterns, such as Crazy Charlies or Gotchas, in front of cruising or tailing bonefish. Make accurate casts to intercept their path and allow the fly to sink before beginning a slow, subtle retrieve. Be prepared for explosive takes and blistering runs.
Gear: Rods: 7-9wt fly rods designed for saltwater flats fishing. Reels: High-quality fly reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Weight-forward floating or intermediate sinking saltwater fly lines. Leaders: 9-12ft leaders with 10-16lb fluorocarbon tippets. Flies: Shrimp or crab patterns, such as Crazy Charlies, Gotchas, or Bonefish Bitters.

Spinning/Conventional Fishing

How: When spin or conventional fishing for bonefish, use small soft plastic baits or shrimp imitations. Cast your lure ahead of the moving bonefish and retrieve it slowly to mimic a natural movement. Pay attention to the water depth and adjust your lure weight accordingly. Avoid heavy tackles to preserve the sport and challenge of catching bonefish.
Gear: Rods: Light to medium spinning or conventional rods. Reels: High-quality spinning or conventional reels with a smooth drag. Line: Monofilament or braided lines with a test rating of 8-12lb. Leaders: Fluorocarbon leaders with a test rating of 8-12lb. Lures: Small soft plastics, shrimp imitations, or bonefish jigs.