Overview

The ER Crab is Umpqua's updated version of Jan Isly's raghead crab, built for permit and bonefish. Its body is set with an adhesive that stays firm but flexible, so when a permit crushes the fly the body does not break loose from the shank and block the hook gap.

Crabs are a main food for permit and big bonefish, and a crab fly that lands softly and sinks in front of a fish is often the only thing a permit will eat. The size 6 is the smaller, lighter version, meant for skinny water and calm conditions, including large tailing bonefish in 1 to 2 feet of water.

How to Fish It

• Lead and drop: cast ahead of a tailing or cruising fish and let the crab sink to the bottom in its path.
• Let it sit: crabs hide when threatened. A long pause or a slow, short strip is usually better than a fast retrieve.
• Strip-set: when the fish tips down on the fly, set with a long, firm strip, not a rod lift.
• Leader: 12 to 20 lb fluorocarbon depending on species and bottom.

Choosing Color and Size

Size 6 is the light ER Crab for shallow, calm water and tailing fish. It lands quietly and sinks slowly enough not to spook fish in 1 to 2 feet of water.