
Crazy Charlie
Developed in 1977 by Charlie Smith on Andros Island in the Bahamas, the Crazy Charlie is one of the most effective and widely used bonefish patterns in the world. Its translucent D-rib body over a Krystal Flash underbody and sparse calf tail wing create a lifelike shrimp or minnow imitation.
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Materials
Tiemco 811S or Daiichi 2546 saltwater hook, sizes 2-8
White or pink 3/0 or 6/0
Silver or pink bead chain eyes, medium
3-4 strands pearl Krystal Flash
Clear D-Rib or V-Rib, medium
White calf tail, sparse
Pearl Krystal Flash or Flashabou, 2-4 strands
How to Tie the Crazy Charlie
- 1
Step 1
Start thread about one-third shank length behind the hook eye and build a smooth thread base.
- 2
Step 2
Secure bead chain eyes on top of the shank using figure-eight thread wraps, about 2-3 hook-eye lengths from the eye. Ensure they are firmly attached for proper weighting and hook-up orientation.
- 3
Step 3
Wind thread back to the bend of the hook creating a smooth base. Tie in 3-4 strands of Krystal Flash and the D-Rib with flat side down at the bend.
- 4
Step 4
Wrap the Krystal Flash forward building a slim underbody with a slight taper. Tie off and trim near the bead chain eyes.
- 5
Step 5
Wrap the D-Rib forward in tight touching turns over the underbody. Figure-eight around the eyes, then tie off in front and trim.
Keep D-Rib wraps tight with no gaps for the cleanest segmented body.
- 6
Step 6
Select a small clump of calf tail, measure so it extends just past the bend. Tie in on the underside of the hook behind the eyes with one loose wrap first, then secure tightly.
- 7
Step 7
Add 2-4 strands of Krystal Flash over the wing, trimmed slightly longer than the calf tail.
- 8
Step 8
Whip finish in front of the eyes to form a small neat head. Apply head cement for durability.
Watch Tying Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tf7VG2Alx4w
Credit: Charlie Smith (1977)