Best Months
Oct – Nov
Best Time
Morning is preferred when fish are actively tailing on the flats
Tide
High tide brings bonefish onto shallow flats to feed
Top Locations
11 regions
How to Catch Bonefish
High tide brings bonefish onto shallow flats to feed. Fish the last hour of the run-in and the flat itself. As the tide ebbs they retreat to deeper water channels.
Morning is preferred when fish are actively tailing on the flats. Midday heat pushes fish off shallow flats to deeper, cooler water on Christmas Island.
Calm, clear, sunny conditions are essential for sight-fishing on the flats. A slight chop helps reduce detection but you need visibility to spot fish.
Sand and coral rubble flats adjacent to deep-water channels. Christmas Island's abundant flats see bonefish tailing in schools and singles. Look for nervous water.
Fly fishing is the premier method — crab and shrimp patterns in sizes 6–2. Lead the fish by 1–2m and let the fly sink. A slow, jerky strip mimics a fleeing crab.
Christmas Island is the world's best bonefish destination. 'Bones' run large (4–8lb average) and are found in huge schools. Hire a local guide who knows the tide-dependent flat locations.
Best Regions by Month
Seasonal ratings across all Australian regions. Click a region to see the full calendar.
Casting hard body lures to structure, mangroves, and rocky areas in estuaries.
Traditional fly fishing with dry flies and nymphs for trout and bass in streams and lakes. The pinnacle of freshwater technique.