4 Things to Learn About Bonefish from this Picture
- They tip down when they eat. See how the nose on Billy the Bonefish is pointed and worn? That’s because he drives his nose into the bottom of the flat to root out food. When a bonefish is tracking close to your fly and you see his body tip down (it’s pretty noticeable actually), set the hook. Even if you don’t feel it, chances are he’s on your fly.
- Their mouths are bony. Everywhere other than the soft upper lip, Billy’s mouth is quite hard – much harder than a trout’s. Lifting your rod won’t drive the hook deep enough to land him, so when he eats makes sure you strip set.
- They don’t have teeth. After you’ve landed Billy, don’t be afraid to reach into his mouth to dislodge your fly. Releasing bonefish quickly is really important – just pop it out and let him swim away. WARNING: other critters on the flats like barracudas and snappers are very toothy, so don’t try this on them. Also, we accept no responsibility if you get bit by an undiscovered species of toothed bonefish.
- Their mouths are strangely human-like up close.
Nice… very nice.