Bonefish Flats Fishing
Sight-fishing for bonefish on shallow tropical sand flats with fly rods and light spinning gear is one of the world's great inshore fishing experiences, available in Australia's remote Kimberley region and across Pacific island destinations including Christmas Island. Spotting tailing and cruising fish on clear flats and presenting a well-placed fly or lure requires skill and precision.
Target Species
Fishing Locations
- • Christmas Island Flats
- • Flying Fish Cove
- • Cocos Lagoon Flats
- • North Keeling Island Drop-Off
Fishing Tips
- 1
Approach bonefish tailing on the flats by wading or poling the boat extremely slowly and quietly — a single loud splash or thump on the hull will flush every fish within 50 metres.
- 2
Lead a cruising fish by casting 2–3 metres ahead of its path; the fly or lure should land softly and sink just enough to intercept the fish at eye level as it moves forward.
- 3
Use a 9 ft leader tapering to 10–12 lb fluorocarbon tippet — bonefish have excellent eyesight and a heavy tippet on a clear flat will spook fish before they reach the fly.
- 4
The 'one strip, pause, two strips' retrieve mimics a fleeing crab or shrimp and is the most reliable pattern; if a fish follows but doesn't eat, stop the fly completely and let it sink.
- 5
Fish the incoming tide as it covers the flat — bonefish move onto newly flooded ground to feed and are at their most aggressive in the first hour of rising water over the sand.