The Bonefish in Grand Cayman will change everything you thought you knew about this coveted catch. Not only are the specimens in these waters larger than average (ranging from 3-8 lbs), but they are also bolder. Whether fly fishing or spinning, you can enjoy great success while targeting Bonefish in Grand Cayman, so long as you master the proper technique!

When to Target Bonefish

In Grand Cayman, you are likely to catch Bonefish on any given day, but fishing in spring and summer happens to be especially good. These fish are surprisingly predictable, often appearing on the same flats with the same tides every day. Bonefish do not actually inhabit the flats of Grand Cayman, but dwell in the waters between the flats and nearshore reefs. If you plan to target Bonefish with spinning gear, this middle ground is the best place to fish. Hundreds of Bonefish (and other species) feed in this area, stirring up the water and creating a large, cloudy zone around them. Bonefish are not so easily spooked when you target them in these conditions. Casting a heavy bucktail jig tipped with shrimp is recommended.

The best time to target Bonefish on fly is when an inbound tide floods the shallows. The Bonefish follow the tide inshore to feed on shrimp and crabs along the bottom. You will see their tails flashing along the water’s surface as they root around for their prey. This presents the opportune moment for a gentle, accurate cast. Keep in mind that the Cayman flats are blanketed by thick grass, meaning your fly must land directly in front of the fish if it is to be seen.

How to Target Bonefish

The most common way to target Bonefish is by wade fishing the numerous flats all around Grand Cayman. It’s possible to target Bonefish in North Sound, South Sound, Frank Sound, Prospect Point, East End, West Bay, and even along Seven Mile Beach. You will find plenty of Grand Cayman fishing charters which offer guided wade fishing in a variety of locations. 

Contrary to most of the Bahamas, the flats in Grand Cayman are covered in a thick layer of turtle grass. (Rum Point is the sandiest of the flats, but you will not find Bonefish tailing here as often.) This calls for some subtle adjustments when casting flies, which visiting anglers tend to overlook. Above all, accurate casting is key. This is especially true in Grand Cayman because the thick grass limits your target’s field of vision. Your fly must land directly in front of a Bonefish, or else he isn’t going to bite. Patience is equally important—be sure your target sees the fly, then give him time to bite it. Stripping too soon and too fast is the biggest mistake visiting anglers make. Small strips of only several inches will give you the proper start.

When fly fishing for Bonefish in Grand Cayman, be sure to use lightly weighted flies. You will also want to use long leaders with a gentle turn-over in addition to implementing weed guards. You can still rely on the usual patterns, such as Gotchas and Crazy Charlies. Using tan or brown shrimp and crab should work well, too. Some local anglers have great success using bright colors such as pink and orange.

Please note that fishing for Bonefish in Grand Cayman is usually catch and release. You do not need a fishing license for wade or shore fishing unless you intend to keep your catch.