SaltwaterBonefish Bitter

Bonefish Bitter is a popular saltwater pattern that is highly effective at imitating small crabs and shrimp. Its epoxy-coated body and rubber legs give it a realistic movement and appearance that bonefish find hard to resist.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Bonefish
Bonefish Bitter - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

A sparse, translucent pattern with a dubbed or synthetic body, bead chain eyes, and paired rubber legs to mimic shrimp or crabs. Often tied in tan, pink, or white with a mono weed guard. Materials like EP fibers or craft fur can be trimmed to a compact profile. Designed to land softly and ride hook-point up for spooky bonefish.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Bonefish
Saltwater
Year Round
Imitates: Crabs, Shrimp

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 811S, size #6–#8
Thread: Tan Veevus 6/0
Body: Epoxy coated with tan dubbing
Legs: Round rubber legs in brown
Eyes: Dumbbell eyes in black
Shell: Solarez Thick Hard UV resin

Fishing Tips

Season

Bonefish Bitter can be used year round.

Presentation

Cast this fly near feeding bonefish and retrieve with short, sharp strips to mimic a fleeing crab or shrimp.

When to Use

This pattern is particularly effective on bonefish flats during incoming tides when bonefish are feeding.

Water Type

Bonefish Bitter is designed for saltwater environments, particularly on bonefish flats.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a 9-12 foot leader with a 12-20 lb tippet.

Visibility & Floatation

The Bonefish Bitter sinks and is easily visible due to its contrasting colors and dumbbell eyes.

Additional Videos