Bonefishing in the Florida Keys will put your angling skills to the test. Also called the “Grey Ghost” of the flats, this is one of the most elusive—and prestigious—species known to light tackle and fly fishermen.

Bonefish in the Keys typically weigh 7-9 lbs, though some can top 15 lbs. Islamorada and the upper Keys produce some of the largest specimens, while the lower Keys host the highest numbers. In Key West, anglers sometimes catch 10-15 of this fish in a day.

When to Catch Bonefish

Bonefish inhabit the Keys all year, everywhere from Key Largo to Key West. You’ll mostly find them on the flats and in the shallow waters of Florida Bay, known around here as “the Backcountry.”

The best time to seek out this Grey Ghost on the flats is between late spring and early fall, when the water temperature is just right. The biggest of them appear in September and October. Bonefish seek out cooler water at midday, when the sun is beating down on the flats, so it’s best to cast your line in early morning or late afternoon.

Bonefishing on the flats in winter can also prove effective, just keep an eye out for any cold fronts that might drive this skittish fish away. Don’t worry—he’ll be back a few days later as the water grows warm again.

How to Catch Bonefish

You can catch Bonefish either by spinning with light tackle or fly fishing. Always remember that stealth is of the essence, since this hard-won prize scares easily.

If you’re targeting Bonefish while they feed on the grassy bottom of the flats, you can catch them on light spinning tackle (6-12 lb line) using live Shrimp or Crabs. Jigs are also suitable. If you’re fly fishing, use an 8 or 9-weight rod.

What makes this fish especially difficult to hook is the need for precision. Your cast must land in exactly the right spot—not too close, but not too far. A cast that lands too close to this fish will startle it, while a cast that lands too far will escape his attention entirely.

You can also lure the Grey Ghost toward you by tossing Shrimp as chum before casting a baited hook.

Most of all, experienced anglers love sight casting for Bonefish in the Keys. Much like hunting, this method will have you scanning the flats for tailing fish and clouds of mud as they root around for Crabs and Shrimp. Also keep an eye out for dark shadows and shaky water, caused when Bonefish swim against the current.

Once hooked, these ghostly game fish streak across the flats, easily ripping through 100 yards of line or more. For the light tackle and fly fisherman, it’s impossible not to chase that feeling.

Need to Know

Anglers age 16 and older must have a Florida fishing license. Any licensed charter boat in the Keys will provide a fishing license for you, but always confirm this with your captain ahead of time.

While you can fish for this species year-round, Bonefish in Florida are strictly catch and release.