Bahamas in Review: The Flies

Flats Box #1

Most of us, when preparing for a bonefishing trip, are likely to fill the fly boxes with a plethora of patterns. As passionate anglers, we have conditioned ourselves to prepare for as many different scenarios as possible. Dozens of distinct and similar patterns in at least a couple different hook sizes, and in a few different color variations... It all adds up quickly.

During this most recent trip to Deep Water Cay, I was guilty of over-preparation. I ended up using exactly four different fly patterns during three full days of fishing. I could have settled with two. Ok, maybe even one. But, to do so would be to ignore one of the basic tenets of the fly angler: Always thinking there's a more effective pattern. I'm not saying that there aren't bonefishing trips that demand detailed, continuous analysis of the immediate environment, the fish and the eight-ball guess as to the right fly for the moment. However, this trip reminded me that you can also over-think things. It's always a good idea to start with the basics, and work out from there.

The four patterns that worked well for me during this most recent trip are as follows:

1. Flats Fly

I used this pattern 60% of the time on the recent Bahamas trip. I probably could have used it 90% or more, and been equally successful. It just plain works. I like mine in tan + pearl, tied with badger hackle for a little more depth in the profile while remaining a sparse tie. Maybe two fine strands of pink krystal flash in the tailing. Don't forget to trim and epoxy the underside. If you can find it, use pearl v-rib for the body, and straight 20 lb mono for the weedguard.

2. Shrump

This is a versatile and very solid mantis-type pattern. It can be tied heavy or light, big or small, and catches fish. Works best with a weedguard, and just a hint of flash. Again, I like tan.

3. Veverka's Mantis (Schnitzer adaptation)

My take on the venerable Veverka original. It is a "roots" pattern - basic, adaptable, effective. I've had good luck with this pattern in Florida, the Yucatan and The Bahamas. I'm sure I'll be using it in Belize in February. The only thing that makes my pattern distinct is the lo-fi dubbing material (special thanks to my cat).  

4. Bunny Gotcha

Anyone who has fished for bonefish has Gotchas in their box. To fish flats anywhere in the world, you're going to have Gotchas and Crazy Charlies. It's a given, and they work. Just like your Charlies, have these available in sizes 8 through 4, and in tan, white and pink variations.