The Merkin Crab

Jen Ripple

30 Jun 2017 — 1 min read

This crab pattern, created by Del Brown, has probably accounted for more fly caught permit than any other pattern. This is not a realistic crab pattern, but acts more like a real crab compared to other patterns. This fly can be a little time consuming to tie at first, but the techniques are not complicated. This fly has launched a tying style appropriately called “Merkin” and can be applied to many other materials. There is a little art to shaping the body of the fly. The shape should resemble a rounded teardrop.

Hook: TMC 811S 1/0 - #6
Thread: Chartreuse flat waxed nylon
Weight: Plated lead eyes
Tail: Brown barred neck hackle
Flash: Pearl Flashabou
Body: Tan craft yarn
Legs: Square white rubber legs
Garnish: Red permanent marker

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