This gives the skin a local, natural smell that won’t raise any alarm among the bonefish. Experienced bonefishers always take a minute to rub some of the nearby gravel on their hands before taking to the boat. Bonefish have an excellent sense of smell and thus, they can detect your presence by the sunblock you have on or the smell of gasoline on your hands. In addition to limiting noise, be cognizant of how you smell. This means walking gently on the boat bottom, minimizing or avoiding false casts entirely and keeping your voice low. You have to be able to sneak up on your prey without notifying the fish of your presence. Many experienced bonefishers assert that bonefishing is more like hunting than fishing.

Priming your casting skills before your trip will save you a whole lot of frustration and wasted time. The flats can get windy so make sure that you’re sufficiently skilled for hitting the mark when casting both into, against and across the wind. These fish are usually caught at 25 to 35 feet out, so set yourself a target at this distance and train until you can hit your target every time. Bonefish are quick to get spooked and thus, there is no opportunity for a lot of false casting. Until you’ve become a veritable bonefishing expert, the difference between having a guide and not having one can be huge.īefore you set out for a bonefishing trip, be sure to log plenty of hours in practice time. They can also recommend the best casting distances and techniques, based upon the behaviors of local bonefish, the outside temperatures and the wind. These seasoned professionals can act as both your eyes and ears and will spot bones in areas that you might not think to look.

There are countless benefits in hiring a guide, especially when heading out to the flats for the first time.

Fortunately, the five tips that follow will greatly increase your chances of success as you hit the flats and start learning the nuances of this truly clever fish. Fishing for bone takes patience, skill and all the right strategies.

Few bonefishers bring anything impressive in on the first try.

Bahama flats air/x fishing sun hat