SaltwaterBorski Bonefish Slider

The Borski Bonefish Slider is a highly effective saltwater pattern originally designed by Tim Borski. This fly is designed to imitate a fleeing shrimp or crab as it skitters across the flats. It's a favorite among flats fishermen and a proven bonefish catcher.

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

Overview

The Borski Bonefish Slider is a classic flats pattern designed for stealthy presentations to spooky bonefish. It features a tapered body of spun and clipped deer hair that gives it a natural profile and slight buoyancy, allowing it to “slide” quietly along the bottom. The tail is typically made from craft fur or Arctic fox for lifelike movement, often accented with flash. Small bead chain eyes provide just enough weight without creating a hard splash. The fly is tied on a saltwater hook with durable thread and requires careful trimming of the deer hair for an even silhouette and smooth landing.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Bonefish
Saltwater
Year Round
Imitates: Shrimp, Crab

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 811S, size #4–#8
Thread: Tan Uni-Thread 6/0
Eyes: Medium bead chain
Body: Tan craft fur
Wing: Tan craft fur
Flash: Pearl Krystal Flash

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Retrieve with short, quick strips

When to Use

When fishing on the flats for bonefish

Water Type

This fly is designed for saltwater flats

Rigging Suggestions

Use a 9-12 foot leader with a 12-15 lb tippet

Visibility & Floatation

The bead chain eyes help the Borski Bonefish Slider sink quickly and the craft fur body gives it a lifelike motion in the water.