The weather made for some tough conditions over the past week. High winds, rain and cloud cover made sight fishing for bonefish very difficult. We had all of that. The bonefish seem to love the adverse conditions. Monster tails were spotted on the proper tides but connecting was another story. With this, i can't stress more the importance of praticing in windy conditions. The fish are far less spooking and casts aren't nearly as long. It can be very frustrating if you are not prepared for gusty, in your face, wind. I actually look forward to wind if i am out fun fishing. Slick calm days can be nearly impossible when you are stalking double digit bonefish. They need to eat the fly or jig on the first movement or will figure it out very quickly that it's not real.
If you have traveled to islands for bonefish, trade winds are a normal part of most days. Add in a high pressure system or front and you have what many think of as an unfishable scenerio. Seasoned anglers have learned to make the most of whatever mother nature deals out knowing some of there best catches have been on less than prefect outings. I like to use the batting donut idea when practicing. Basically that means find a larger and heavier than normal fly and cut off the hook. With a jig you do the opposite. Try punching it directly into the wind. It will not go far but you will be able to get it out with some practice. Low side arm type casts work the best. Try to work on line maintenance. What i mean by that, is when you strip your line back, try to keep it coiled behind you neatly. Lowering your profile will help dramatically. The most important thing to remember about wind and clouds is to stay alert and keep your wits. If you let the conditions be overwhelming, you could miss out on a short cast to the fish of a lifetime!
Honolulu Fishing Forecast:
wind will continue for a couple more days, but this type of gusts is not usual and will pass! We are coming into our busier time so book early to ensure you get to fish with your favorite guide
