Flexo Crab Step by Step

#8 Flexo Crab is deadly in the shallows for Bonefish.

The flexo crab is quickly becoming one of the most popular flats patterns on the market. Making up nearly 75% of my own orders this fly entices permit, bonefish, redfish, triggerfish and just about anything else willing to chomp a crab. What makes this fly unique is the body material which is made from flex tubing. When flexed this tubing creates a realistic crab body profile.

The flex tubing comes in two sizes. 1/4” and 1/8” and many different colors to suit any need. I prefer the 1/4” when tying on a 1/0 hook and the 1/8” when going down to a #4 or #8. Another great feature to the flex tubing is that water can easily pass through the body of the fly. This allow the fly to fall faster as there isn’t as much resistance as other flies. This can also allow the angler to use some lighter weights if he/she desires. Careful not to go too light though as you still need the hook to flip point up and you want enough weight for the fly to swim without spinning. In the video I used medium lead but you would get away with small lead or even 2 brass eyes.

The legs and claws are made from micro ultra chenille. They are pulled through the flex body and secured with Deercreek Sculpt. This allow them to stay in place. After many fish the legs or claws may get pulled off but as long as the body is in good shape just pull a new leg or claw through the body hit it with the resin again and you’ll be able to keep fishing that same fly over and over again.

This is without a doubt a fly that needs to be in your box for your next trip to the flats.