Fly Fishing Tips from Grand Cayman Island - Bonefishing, Fly Casting, Saltwater Flies

SALTY CASTING: FLY CASTING FOR THE FLATS

I suppose casting effectively for bonefish can be broken down into a single phrase: reaching the fish stealthily. This highlights the two of the most important elements of bonefish presentation. First, being able to actually cast the distance to the fish, and, second, to land the fly without alarming the fish. Interestingly enough, I think being unable to perform either of these two tasks can be traced to the same casting error: failing to stop the rod properly at the end of the cast. By now most casters are familiar with Lefty Kreh’s mantra, “speed-up-and-stop”, which refers to the speed stroke of the cast, that final burst of speed that actually throws the line. But, what I think more casters need to hear is: speed-up-and-STOP!

HOOKING BONEFISH: STRIP-STRIKE vs. THE "TROUT SET"

When guiding I often get the following question: "Why does a ‘trout set' not work on bonefish when a strip-strike does?"

The responses that most of us saltwater anglers are familiar with are variations on a theme: “raising the rod pulls the fly away from the fish.” “If your strip-strike misses the fly only moves a foot or so and it will still be in the zone .” “A strip-strike gives better control of the hook set since you can feel what you're doing.” All of these responses certainly have merit, but I'm not sure I've ever heard or read the real reason...

THE "SILVER BULLET": HOOKS & LEADERS FOR BONEFISH

Just how strong are bonefish? Well, here are two hooks that were left somewhat the worse for wear after an encounter with a bonefish on the run. The smaller hook is a #6 and the larger a #4. Both hooks are stainless Mustad saltwater models.

CHOOSING BONEFISH FLIES

I think what fish key on more than anything is the way a fly moves. Stupid (uneducated) fish - bones or tarpon - are aggressive and will hit a fast moving fly. They have no suspicion and will chase a fly down. As these same fish see more pressure and flies, they become wary and shy. Now the presentation and the fly have to be right to hook up. Move the fly too much and they spook. I think they may be recognizing that unnatural movement, but the fly certainly has something to do with it...