In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Tailwater Fly Shop ties a crab fly that should be in every angler’s saltwater box, the Flexo Mutineer Crab.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Difficult
What do many flats fish and people have in common? Their love for eating crabs. If you fish the salt near beaches, flats, or tidal rivers, the odds are very good that the species you are targeting have indulged in these crustaceans. From bonefish in the Carribean to striped bass on New England flats, crabs are very effective when presented correctly. One pattern that will allow you to target any flats feeding fish is the Flexo Mutineer Crab, a perfect example of how advances in fly tying have led to more productivity on the water.
Working with synthetic materials can present its own array of challenges. Flexo material is notoriously difficult to work with at first, but with some practice you’ll be able to manipulate it with ease and create accurate profiles quickly. The mutineer claws and legs being in one piece saves countless time on the vise, as you do not have to tie in delicate individual pieces. The key to the Flexo Mutineer Crab’s productivity is its profile, which may appear deceiving simple, but truly can only be perfected through patience and practice.
Adjusting the crab’s colors, size, and weight will allow you to use this pattern all over the world. You won’t need to reinvent your flats fishing techniques or strategy for this fly, but make sure you come prepared with a good pair of polarized glasses to give yourself the best chance at spotting cruising fish. Being able to spot and target fish individually can be some of the most exciting opportunities an angler can experience and it’s important to make every shot count. Have fun tying the Flexo Mutineer Crab and don’t forget to add personalized adjustments to match the hatch and maximize your chance at success on the flats this summer.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Ahrex SA220 Saltwater Streamer – Size 4
- Body: Flexo Tubing – Flats Craft
- Claws: The Mutineer – Flats Craft
- Weight: Tungsten Putty – Flats Craft
Now you know how to tie the Flexo Mutineer Crab!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Tailwater Fly Shop.
