Fly-Fishing for Bonefish, by Chico Fernandez

Chico Fernandez has devoted most of his life to fly fishing, fly tying, teaching, and writing. His fly patterns have been used to trick wary saltwater species across the globe. Although he is truly a worldwide angler, Chico is best known for his masterful pursuit of bonefish. In his book Fly-Fishing for Bonefish, Chico shares what he has learned in 40 years of fly fishing for bones.

The first thing you will notice about Fly-Fishing for Bonefish is that it is a beautiful book. The binding is good quality and the gloss paper brings the subtle colors of the flats to life. The photographs are rendered in vivid detail and they practically beg you to grab your tackle bag and head to the tropics. The second thing you will notice is that Fly-Fishing for Bonefish is thorough- nearly encyclopedic. No corners were cut in either the editing or production of this book.

Fly-Fishing for Bonefish is divided into three sections. The first section examines the bonefish's "world" and covers bonefish life history, bonefish biology and diet, and the effect of tides on bonefish behavior. Section two covers tackle and equipment. Rods, reels, lines, rigging, and leaders are discussed in this section. Section three describes angling strategies- how to find, approach, hook, and land bonefish. Fly-Fishing for Bonefish also contains a full bibliography and index. I have never understood why so many fishing books lack a full index, and I was happy to see one included in this book.

If you have ever had the opportunity to fish the tropical flats, I think you will enjoy Chico Fernandez' Fly-Fishing for Bonefish. And if you have not yet had a chance to go after bones, Fly-Fishing for Bonefish will inspire you to go.

Fly-Fishing for Bonefish
By Chico Fernandez
192 pp. Stackpole Books $49.95
ISBN: 978-0-8117-0095-5