Crystal Shrimp

Materials

How to Tie the Crystal Shrimp

1. 1

   Step 1

   Secure the hook and lay a thread base from the eye to past the bend.

2. 2

   Step 2

   Optionally wrap lead wire or attach bead chain eyes for desired sink rate. Secure with glue.

3. 3

   Step 3

   Cut a piece of thick monofilament and burn both ends to form small balls. Color with a black marker for eyes. Attach with figure-eight wraps near the hook bend.

   Practice burning mono on scraps first. Consistent, round 'pupils' make a big difference in fly appearance.

4. 4

   Step 4

   Tie in several strands of Krystal Flash extending past the bend as antennae. Double back some flash, folding it rearward for additional movement.

5. 5

   Step 5

   Tie in crystal (cactus) chenille at the hook bend.

6. 6

   Step 6

   Wrap the chenille forward in tight, touching turns to just behind the hook eye. Make one or two wraps around the mono eyes. Secure and trim.

7. 7

   Step 7

   Optionally pull remaining Krystal Flash back over the body as a shellback and secure at the head.

8. 8

   Step 8

   Optionally tie in a short saddle hackle as a collar, sweeping fibers rearward for legs.

9. 9

   Step 9

   Whip finish at the eye. Apply head cement or UV resin along the back and eyes for durability and translucency.