SaltwaterBonefish Special

The Bonefish Special is a go-to pattern when chasing bonefish on the flats. It's designed to mimic the small baitfish and crustaceans that bonefish feed on and it's weighted to sink quickly to the bottom.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Bonefish
Bonefish Special - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

The Bonefish Special is a classic flats pattern tied with a light tan or pink dubbed or synthetic body, sparse wing of Craft Fur or calf tail, and a few strands of flash. Bead chain eyes provide the right sink rate in shallow water, and the profile imitates small shrimp or baitfish. Simple, subtle, and effective—ideal for wary bonefish in clear conditions.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Bonefish
Saltwater
Year Round
Imitates: Baitfish, Crustaceans

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 811s #04-08
Thread: Black UTC 140
Tail: Orange Blood Quill Marabou
Flash: Pearl Krystal Flash
Wing: White Calf Tail
Wing2: Grizzly Hackle
Body: Gold Tinsel
Body2: Medium Clear D-Rib
Glue: Loon Thick UV Fly Finish

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Cast in front of a cruising bonefish and retrieve with short, quick strips.

When to Use

This fly is always a good choice when targeting bonefish.

Water Type

Flats and shallow water.

Rigging Suggestions

Rig on a 9-12 foot leader with 12-16 lb tippet.

Visibility & Floatation

The fly sinks quickly and is easily visible against different bottom types.