Welcome to Guide Talk! Today, we’re thrilled to feature Scot De Bruyn, a renowned international fly fishing guide with an impressive career and a knack for catching big bonefish. With his extensive experience and unique insights, Scot is here to share his top tips for landing more bonefish on your next adventure and give us some insight into his life as a fly fishing guide. Let’s dive in!

1. Learn How to Backcast

Mastering your backcast is crucial for effective bonefishing and will improve your overall performance on the flats. A must-know skill when casting into the wind depending on which way those pesky bonefish show up. Practice makes perfect, so spend some time perfecting this fundamental skill to improve your accuracy and distance.

2. Accurate Casting Range

For bonefish, aim for a casting range of 50 feet or more. Bonefish are known for their wariness, so the ability to place your fly accurately at a considerable distance increases your chances of success. The more accurate and consistent your casting, the better your results will be.

3. Listen to Your Guide

Your guide’s knowledge is invaluable. Pay attention to their advice and do your homework before the trip. Understanding the local conditions, reading up on bonefish behavior, and following your guide’s instructions will help you maximize your fishing experience.

4. Lower Rod Angles

When fighting a bonefish, keeping your rod angle lower helps you maintain control. This technique is particularly effective when dealing with strong, fast-moving fish particularly big bonefish. Lowering your rod angle reduces the risk of break-offs and increases your chances of landing the fish.

5. Use the Right Fly

Match your fly to the water depth and substrate. Bonefish are highly sensitive to their environment, so using a fly that suits the specific conditions of the water you’re fishing in can make a significant difference. Pay attention to the recommendations of your guide and adjust accordingly.

Getting to Know Scot De Bruyn

How did you first get into fly fishing, and what drew you to it?

Like many, my late father introduced me to the art of fly fishing. I was just 7 years old when I cast my first line. It’s been a journey of passion and dedication ever since!

What inspired you to become an international fly fishing guide?

I was already an avid fly fisher and wanted to explore what the world had to offer outside my home country. Reading about the fly fishing paradise of the Seychelles in 2001 sparked my desire to guide. I’ve been guiding since 2004.

You've guided in some incredible locations—what's your favorite destination to fish, and why?

St Francois Atoll in the Seychelles stands out as my favorite. It boasts the largest population of bonefish globally and offers one of the most diverse fisheries you’ll ever encounter.

What are the biggest challenges you face when guiding clients in new or exotic locations?

Managing anglers’ expectations versus their skill levels is the biggest challenge. Many clients arrive without adequate preparation, and practice is key to improvement!

Can you tell us a bit about where you're from and what your home water is like?

I grew up in Durban, South Africa, and spent my youth fishing the Drakensberg Mountains. I fished two of the country’s best brown trout rivers, the Mooi and Bushmens rivers, and pursued the native Yellowfish. They fight like Mike Tyson!

How do you prepare both yourself and your clients for a day of chasing big bonefish?

Preparation varies daily based on tides, wind, and light. It’s crucial to understand these factors to predict the best fishing spots. For clients, it’s essential to get them into the habit of leading schools of fish by 18-20 feet to improve their chances with bigger fish.

What gear do you consider essential when targeting bonefish on the fly?

Simplicity is often best. Focus on understanding the local conditions to choose the right tippet/leader setup and fly size. However, quality hooks are crucial. Many terminal failures come from hooks bending under pressure.

Have you had any memorable experiences or stories guiding clients that stand out in your mind?

Catching 72 bonefish in one day on St Francois in 2010 was unforgettable. Another memorable moment was guiding Bill and Lake Taylor from Richmond, Virginia, where we hooked and lost five big GTs before landing a trophy fish.

Looking ahead, what does the future hold for you in fly fishing, and are there any exciting plans or projects on the horizon?

Currently, I’m guiding and managing an Atlantic salmon lodge in Norway. Exciting plans include future trips and opportunities. Follow @fly_life_media and @cartel_flyfishing to stay updated on my latest adventures!

We hope you’ve enjoyed these insights from Scot De Bruyn. For more expert tips and inspiring stories from fly fishing guides around the world, check out our Guide Talk page. Happy fishing