Bonefish Flies
The best fly patterns for bonefishing in the Turks & Caicos — and when to use each one.
Bonefish in the Turks & Caicos are typically found in shallow, clear saltwater flats, and they feed on a variety of small crustaceans, mollusks, and fish. When fly fishing for bonefish, it's important to use a fly that imitates these food sources — small, lightweight, and subtle.
Crazy Charlie
A classic — and famous — bonefish fly that should always hold prime position in the fly box. Imitates small, sand-colored crustaceans and is deadly on the flats around Bottle Creek.
Pink/white, tan, beige — sizes #4–#6
Gotcha
Another classic. Smaller and sparser is often the best choice. Works in virtually any color combination — pink/white is one of the most productive.
Pink/white, chartreuse/white, tan — sizes #4–#6
Crab Flies
Mimic small crabs, a major food source for bonefish. Typically fished on the bottom, kicking up sand to attract attention. Essential for spooky fish.
Tan, brown, olive — sizes #2–#6
Shrimp Flies
Like crab flies, shrimp flies mimic a key food source. Usually tied with rabbit fur or deer hair and retrieved with more of a jigging motion.
Pink, tan, white — sizes #4–#8
Clouser Minnows
Versatile streamers effective for many species including bonefish. The tyer can be creative with wing size, color combinations, and flash.
Any — vary for conditions
Merkin
A type of crab fly designed to mimic small, tan-colored crabs. Less well known but can be deadly on cloudy days when bonefish rely more on vibration than sight.
Tan, olive, cream — sizes #4–#6
Tingler
Designed to imitate small, transparent shrimp that are a major food source. Typically tied with synthetic materials in a variety of colours.
White, pink, chartreuse — sizes #4–#8
Permit Flies
Larger, flashier flies for bigger bonefish or when targeting permit. Also useful when bonefish are in deeper water or more selective.
Tan/white, yellow/white — sizes #2–#4
General Fly Selection Tips
- +Start with small, subtle flies and move to larger, flashier patterns if the bonefish are not responding.
- +Pay attention to the tides and time of day — bonefish feed more actively during certain tides.
- +Have a variety of flies in your box and be prepared to switch based on conditions.
- +The bonefish on these flats have never seen a fly before and are not shy — confident presentations work well.
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