bonefish Fishing in Puerto Rico

Written by: Captain Alberto Jimenez

Puerto Rico offers excellent opportunities for bonefish fishing, with its shallow flats and clear waters providing ideal habitats for these elusive "ghosts of the flats." Trips typically last four to six hours and can yield multiple catches on good days. Bonefish in Puerto Rico are known for their wariness and lightning-fast runs, making them a challenging and exciting target for anglers.

Puerto Rico Bonefish Fishing Regions

Bonefish fishing in Puerto Rico is available in various locations around the island. The flats around La Parguera on the southwest coast are particularly renowned for their bonefish populations. Other productive areas include the shallow waters near Cabo Rojo, the flats of Culebra Island, and some areas around Vieques. These regions offer diverse fishing experiences, from wading in shallow waters to sight-fishing from small skiffs.

Bonefish Fishing in La Parguera, Puerto Rico

La Parguera is a prime destination for bonefish enthusiasts. The area features extensive flats and mangrove-lined shores that provide ideal habitats for bonefish. Anglers can expect to find fish ranging from 2 to 8 pounds, with some specimens reaching up to 10 pounds. The best fishing occurs during the incoming tide when bonefish move onto the flats to feed.

Bonefish Fishing in Culebra and Vieques

The islands of Culebra and Vieques offer some of the most pristine bonefish flats in Puerto Rico. These less-pressured waters often hold larger fish and provide opportunities for sight-fishing in crystal-clear shallows. The remote nature of these islands means fewer anglers and potentially more productive fishing experiences.

Bonefish Tackle Equipment and Techniques

Light tackle is essential for bonefish fishing. 7 to 9-weight fly rods or light spinning gear with 10-15 pound test line are typically used. Leaders should be 9-12 feet long and range from 8-12 pound test, depending on conditions. Stealth is crucial when approaching bonefish, so wading or poling a skiff quietly is often necessary.

Live vs Artificial Bait for Bonefish

Live bait such as small crabs, shrimp, or sand fleas can be highly effective for bonefish. When using live bait, a light wire hook and minimal weight are preferred to allow for a natural presentation. Artificial lures like small jigs, soft plastics imitating shrimp, and fly patterns such as Crazy Charlies or Gotchas are also popular among anglers targeting bonefish in Puerto Rico.

Fly Fishing for Bonefish

Fly fishing is a popular and challenging method for targeting bonefish. An 8 or 9-weight fly rod with a weight-forward floating line is ideal. Effective fly patterns include crab and shrimp imitations in sizes 4 to 8. When fly fishing, accurate casting and delicate presentations are crucial to avoid spooking these wary fish.

Bonefish Sizes & Records

The average size of bonefish caught in Puerto Rico ranges from 3 to 5 pounds, with larger specimens reaching up to 10 pounds. While there are no official records for bonefish in Puerto Rico, anglers have reported catches of fish weighing over 12 pounds in some areas.

Can You Eat Bonefish?

While bonefish are edible, they are not typically considered a food fish due to their bony nature and the difficulty in preparing them. In Puerto Rico, as in many other locations, bonefish are primarily caught for sport and are usually released back into the water after being caught. This practice helps maintain healthy populations and ensures the sustainability of the fishery for future generations of anglers. Bonefish are highly valued for their fighting ability and the challenge they present to anglers, rather than for their culinary qualities. Catch and release is strongly encouraged to preserve this important sportfish species in Puerto Rico's waters.