SaltwaterBonefish Puff

The Bonefish Puff is a simple yet deadly pattern often used for bonefish in shallow flats. The design allows it to land softly on the water, minimizing disturbance, while the sparkle dubbing and rubber legs imitate a small shrimp or crab.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Beginner
Target Species
Bonefish
Bonefish Puff - Image source: Anglers All
Image source: Anglers All

Overview

The Bonefish Puff is a simple, impressionistic bonefish pattern tied with a short, rounded silhouette using synthetic yarn or craft fur for the body and wing. Small bead chain eyes provide subtle weight and movement, making it ideal for shallow flats and spooky fish. It's often tied in tan, pink, or white to match local forage.

Pattern Characteristics

Beginner Difficulty
Bonefish
Saltwater
Year Round
Imitates: Shrimp, Crab

Materials

Hook: #04-08 Tiemco 811s
Thread: Pink UTC 140
Eyes: Silver Medium Beadchain Eyes
Wing: White Calf Tail
Wing2: Grizzly Hackle
Flash: Pearl Krystal Flash
Head: Shrimp Pink Woolly Bugger Chenille

Fishing Tips

Season

The Bonefish Puff can be used year-round in tropical saltwater environments where bonefish are found.

Presentation

Cast ahead of cruising bonefish and let the fly sink. Once the fish is near, use short, quick strips to imitate a fleeing shrimp or crab.

When to Use

This fly is effective during all tide stages, but it's particularly deadly on dropping tides when bonefish are feeding in the shallows.

Water Type

This pattern is meant for saltwater flats.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a 9-12 foot leader with a 12-20 pound fluorocarbon tippet. Bonefish have excellent eyesight, so lighter tippet may be necessary in clear water.

Visibility & Floatation

The Bonefish Puff sinks slowly, allowing bonefish to spot it easily. The sparkle dubbing adds flash and visibility under water.

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