Bonito

Bonito

Atlantic Bonito (Sarda sarda) also known as bones, are a lightning-fast pelagic species that make their way into Rhode Island waters during the late summer and fall months. Many down south consider them trash fish and even use them for shark bait, but for us shore and kayak anglers up north they are a real treat. At first glance they look similar to false albacore, but they have a few distinguishing features that set them apart.

Bonito are green and silver in color with blue-green dorsal fins and black stripes along the body. They also have small sharp teeth that they use to tear up all different kinds of baitfish. Bones are a littles smaller and skinnier compared to albies, but man can they still put up a fight. These fish can hit speeds up to 40 mph and can turn on a dime, they are incredible swimmers. I have to admit, I don’t go quite as crazy for bonito as I do for False Albacore, but they are still very rewarding to catch.