Question
I have a Bonfire patio peach that is 8 years old and is in the ground. It is in a protected area and seems to really like it there. The fruit that I get is not edible(hard and small), but the tree is approximately 8 feet and almost touches the ground with it's limbs. My question is how and when do I prune this beautiful tree without damaging it?

Answer
The Bonfire is not known for good fruit like the Elberta or Cling. It is bred to be a small patio tree, that's all. But, if you ripen the fruit in a paper bag, at room temperature, and let them get sweet, then mix them with other fruit in a cobbler, they is edible.
With out being able to show you, or illustrate the proper way to prune, I worry that you could damage your tree. Find a good book with plenty of pictures showing where, and how to cut the branches. There is a wrong way, and a right way.
The best time to prune is when the tree is dormant. Before the new spring growth starts. You will need to shorten the branches and thin them as well. Take your time when you do it. Besides making the tree smaller and thicker, you also need to pay close attention to the trees shape. Have an idea of how you would like the tree to look as far as shape and size. It may take you a few times to master the skills of pruning, but don't give up. It is the most important thing you can do for your peach tree, next to watering.