Shrimp / Pattern notes

Crazy Charlie

A sparse calf-tail wing and light eyes create a compact flats fly.

From hook to fly

At the vise.

4 steps

Follow this base recipe in order. The materials list specifies one hook size; adjust proportions together when tying another size.

Eyes
Tie bead-chain eyes above the shank near the front third. Lock them with figure-eight wraps and cement.
Body
Attach braid at the bend and wrap a slim body forward. Secure behind the eyes.
Wing
Invert the hook. Tie sparse calf tail on the point side, extending just past the bend. Add two flash strands.
Finish
Whip finish, cement the thread, and clear the eye.

Beyond the bench

Present quietly to bonefish, let it settle, then use short strips. Match eye weight to the flat’s depth.

Tied by independent makers

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Original written instructions adapted from the sources below. Materials and methods may vary between versions.