Bonefish Tagging

Prior to the development of the University of Miami's bonefish research program, little was known about the spatial distribution bonefish stock abundance or the movements of animals between important fishing areas of south Florida and the Florida Keys . In consultation with concerned anglers and professional guides we developed a program to assess the stock distribution and abundance of bonefish using well-tested quantitative methods in fishery science. Initiated in 1998, the conventional anchor tag-and-recapture for south Florida bonefish study enlists voluntary efforts of professional bonefish guides and avid anglers who ply the waters of the Florida Keys year-round. Each volunteer receives a “tagging kit” composed of a tag applicator, Hallprint dart tags, 1 datasheet, 2 pencils, and a tupperware container. The tupperware container is used to contain everything and protect the gear from saltwater. Our program utilizes voluntary efforts by bonefish guides and experienced anglers. Volunteers catch bonefish using hook-and-line gear (usually either fly-rod or spin-cast gears). Using the tag applicator, relatively thin, high-grade, polymer plastic tags are inserted and “anchored” between the dorsal musculature and bone structures. After application, the anchor tags look like a small white twig protruding slightly from dorsal area of the fish. Recapture information allows us to determine patterns and distances of movements by bonefish in the Florida Keys.

For more information on this program and to participate, contact Dr. Jerry Ault ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or visit his web site. You can keep current on updates here.