Can you conquer the bones? Sure, the Bahamas can offer sun, seclusion, solace, and a sexy tan, but did you know it can also offer the chance to partake in some of the best fishing in the world? Bonefishing Exuma is truly a challenging and exciting sport and the regional shorelines are particularly exceptional for this energetic pastime. Bonefish are one of the most elusive fish in the sea and can be slippery prey to snag; however, with a knowledgeable guide and a few tips and tricks, snagging a “bone” can be a truly satisfying and pleasurable experience.

the bonefish

Bonefish are native to the Caribbean, but are particularly abundant off the coast of the Exuma Islands. The pristine sandy plains of the Exumas provide the ideal setting for this sport, as bonefish stick to the shallow muddy and sandy plains when burrowing for food. Parts of the southeast side of the island are known to have some particularly good spots. The bonefish is generally caught for the sport and spirit of the hunt; they are not particularly known for being that tasty. In fact, bonefish are said to have more fight per pound than any other fish.

Fly fishermen flock to the islands of the Bahamas every year to experience the challenge and adventure of bone fishing in Exuma. Bonefish are silver in color and move very fast; It is not uncommon to see three or four enthusiastic fishermen splashing merrily in the shallows, rod in hand, to chase a school, which can number up to 300 fish. A bonefish can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour to evade sharks, barracuda, and of course energetic anglers! An average bonefish weighs between 4 and 6 pounds, but can reach up to 19 pounds. Although bone fishing is popular in any season, the months of May through July are said to be particularly exceptional for this lively sport.

Exuma bonefishing

Bonefishing is not your typical fishing expedition by any means. Exuma has many resources and facilities where visitors, whether hobbyists or professionals, can visit to learn bonefishing techniques and seek help from experienced and enthusiastic guides. Most of the guides on the island have grown up in the area and are well versed in the movements of this slippery silver fish. It is important to arm the rod immediately while your guide prepares the boat; You definitely don’t want to be caught off guard when a school of bonefish rushes towards you. If the tides are high, you can expect to fish in creeks and mangrove shorelines, as the Exuma bone fishery is tide dependent. Depending on weather and seasonal changes, the average number of schools of bonefish sighted per day in Exuma is 40 to 400, while the average number of fish caught per day is 3 to 45.

Essentials for eager bone anglers

  • fly rods
  • Heavy-backed spools (150-200 yards)
  • Spare flying lines
  • Leader material/tippets
  • Flies (Gotchas, Christmas Island Specials, Charlies)
  • Pliers/scissors/hook sharpener
  • wading shoes
  • wading pack
  • fly tying equipment
  • Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
  • water bottle
  • light rain gear

Whether you want an exciting fishing experience or just want to try something new and different, Exuma bonefishing is the ideal choice. It is definitely not a passive activity and can be enjoyable for the whole family. Hooking your first bonefish is a unique and rewarding experience that can make you take up the sport full time. As any local bone fisherman will tell you, there is nothing more exciting than casting your line into that blue sea and looking forward to the impending thrill of the chase. The avid bone fisherman is always scanning, anticipating and moving to hook his next big fish.