How to Catch a Bonefish

The Florida Keys, Islamorada and Key West rank as the premier fishing location for large bonefish. Many world class tournaments held in the area continue to draw anglers with hopes of catching the largest fish. Bonefish give a good fight when hooked and need time before bringing in.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Flats boat
• Polarized sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Sun gloves
• Hat
• Rod
• Spinning reel
• Line
• Live bait
• Lures
• Fly
• Lightweight tackle
• Net

1. Plan a trip to the Keys during October thru December for the best time to catch bonefish, although the season is open throughout the year.
2. Fish the 6 inches to 2 feet flats either by wading or from a flats boat. It's common to see 8 to 10 lb. bonefish swimming in schools of 5 to 10 then increasing with smaller fish during the winter.
3. Dress appropriately for wading or boat fishing and bring sun essentials. Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, sun gloves and hat protect you from the sun's effects.
4. Use a spinning reel with 6 to 10 lb monofilament line holding 200 to 300 yards. The bonefish run when hooked.
5. Choose live bait, lures or fly-fishing with lightweight tackle to catch bonefish. Shrimp remains a favorite, with crab and crayfish close behind.
6. Cast up current from the bonefish to let the water bring your bait to them. Otherwise, in calm water, cast about 10 feet in front of the fish.
7. Hook the fish when it strikes and let it run until it's tired, then net at the side of the boat when you bring it in.

Tips & Warnings

• Bonefish average 4 to 8 lbs. and feed on shellfish, shrimp, crabs and small fish. Look for their fins above the shallow waters to know where they're feeding.
• Anglers fish bonefish for sport and not for food. Release soon after netting by holding both tail and underside in the water. Move the fish from side to side forcing its gills to open and close then let it go.