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This week for Fly Tying Friday, Jack Reis goes over a pattern that has earned a spot in any flat walker’s fly box because of its versatility in seducing a range of different species. Take it away Jack!
“Half sand flea, half crab, this versatile pattern from Enrico Puglisi has taken fish around the world. Permit, bonefish, redfish, pompano and triggers all seem to love its buggy look. One of my favorite qualities of the Mole Crab is how little time it takes to whip up a batch at the last minute. It’s also one of those patterns that lends itself to creativity, so try mixing it up with different materials and weights. For example, I don’t often add rattles, but these guys just seemed to be begging for a little shake. Consider tying this is tan, or whichever color is most likely to match your environment.”
Materials:
- Hook: Tiemco 811S – sz. 1/0
- Thread: UTC 140 – Fl. Orange
- Body: EP Wooly Critter Brush – Sculpin, Furry Foam – Light Olive
- Underbody: Rattle
- Claws: Micro Ultra Chenille – Brown
- Eyes: Plain Dumbell Eyes, Mono Eyes
More Fly Tying Goodness:
Great fly as is. Have caught big bones and permit on it.
Suggest you tie a few with a UV underbody, e.g. Hareline UV Polar Chenille, medium, gold. This variation will give you that extra edge, especially on those dark, cloudy, rainy days in the fall and winter.
Thanks for the tip Frank, we will have to give the UV underbody a try!