Crab imitations are becoming popular for saltwater gamefish, not just for bonefish and permit, but for many fish that feed upon crustaceans. Crabs represent a significant source of high quality protein for bonefish, permit, striped bass, bluefish, seatrout, weakfish, and numbers of other fish that feed in shallow water environments. I have observed gamefish feeding on other prey go out of their way to pick up a crab, and this led me to develop the Sparkling Crab, a durable and highly effective crab fly.

Originally designed for stripers on northeast flats, this pattern incorporates E-Z Shape Sparkle Body in order to duplicate the coloration, texture, and three-dimensional aspect of the crab carapace. Tied properly, this fly is easy to cast, lands and fishes upright, and moves well in the water. The Sparkling Crab has been producing exceptionally well for anglers in the Bahamas and other southern locations, as well as on the northeast flats for striped bass. I tie this pattern in several colors including tan (or sand), olive, and also a dark olive version using the Crayfish color E-Z Shape Sparkle body.

Information regarding E-Z Shape Sparkle Body can be found on other pages here at SaltwaterFlies.Com. You may also find some reports from anglers who have used this crab fly successfully on our forum page.

Here are the instructions for tying Windram's Sparkling Crab.
Enjoy!