BONEFISH ON THE FLATS
Part One: Introduction, behavior and spotting bonefish.

The bonefish is by far the most popular character in the lineup of flats species. Its outstanding attributes combine an unparalleled eagerness to take both flies and lures with heart-stopping, reel stressing runs. Bonefish are also the most numerous game fish on the flats.

Bonefish utilize the shallow-water flats for two reasons. First, the shallow-water flats hold a huge variety of crabs, shrimp, worms, and molluscs which make up the majority of a bonefish's diet. Second, the flats offer bonefish protection from larger predator species which feed on them. Sharks, barracuda, and jacks find bonefish particularly delicious, so self preservation is a bone's primary reason to be in shallow water.

Bonefish have been thoughtfully designed by nature and will blend into their environment more than any other fish on the flat. Their eyesight is exceptionally good and the slightest hint of danger will send them bolting off into the deep blue. Because bonefish seem to be at the top of everybody's dinner list, evolution has designed them to be exceedingly wary. This makes presentation a key factor in the success of the angler.

BONEFISH BEHAVIOR
Bonefish have three basic modes of behavior which are likely to be encountered. The angler's presentation should be chosen according to the behavior encountered.

1. "Tailing" - While feeding with their snouts buried in the bottom substrate, the bonefish's tails will often stick out of the water. When casting to tailing fish the angler can usually throw a fly or lure almost directly on top of them without spooking them. Whenever bones are tailing, they are usually feeding and thus highly absorbed in what they are doing. Even if you do spook the school, it will likely reform immediately and pounce on your fly or jig.

2. "Mudding" - On the deeper parts of the flat, individual or groups of bonefish will often stir up the bottom as they grub for food. This cloud of mud tends to make the bones feel quite secure and often the angler can catch one bone after another without spooking the school. Just keep casting to the leading edge of the mud where they are feeding.

3. "Cruising" - These are generally the most difficult fish to which to present a fly or lure because they aren't necessarily interested in feeding. When bones are cruising, they are much more aware of their surroundings and therefore extreme care should be taken in presentation. When casting to cruising fish, remember to place your offering well ahead of the fish and let it settle until the fish is right on top of it. If the fly or lure is placed too close to a cruising fish, it will immediately bolt for safer waters.

Larger bonefish are usually found in small, solitary groups away from the larger schools of smaller fish. If you're after a trophy, concentrate on the edge of the flats where the bottom drops off into deeper water. Big bones are less concerned with the previously mentioned predators and feel more secure in the deeper water. They will usually drift onto the flat only for short feeding sprees and then immediately return to the deep water.

SPOTTING FISH
From the angler's perspective (especially the novice), spotting these elusive creatures can be somewhat of a problem. A good pair of polarized sunglasses and a long billed hat (with a dark underside) will be essential for spotting fish. Things to look for include the flash of an exposed tail, "nervous water", or the shadow of a cruising fish. With time, you'll be able to spot bones with less and less effort.