Mantis Shrimp - Fly Tying Tutorial

Bob Veverka's Mantis Shrimp pattern might be on of our favorite bonefish flies. It's easy to tie and extremely effective on the flats!

The Mantis Shrimp is a favorite prey of bonefish in tropical flats. With its realistic, multi-dimensional body and vibrant colors, this fly features a well-balanced profile that imitates the natural shrimp's distinctive shape and behavior. Its quick, erratic action when stripped through the water closely resembles the real thing, enticing bonefish to strike. The fly is a popular choice among anglers for its proven success in shallow waters, where bonefish are actively hunting for crustaceans.

 

MATERIAL LIST

TOOLS USED

TYING NOTES

It's really important to vary your hook sizes and weight when tying this fly. I haven't seen the need for lots of color variation but it's always nice when I'm on the water having versions with medium beadchain, large beadchain, and even small dumbbell eyes. If you want to play with colors, I think different silicone legs would be something fun to tinker with.

FISHING NOTES:

I've used this fly with great success on hosted saltwater trips. It's always in my box and usually my first choice. As I mentioned in the video having options when it comest to weights/sizes is extremely important to match water conditions on the flats. I'm typically fishing this with an eight-weight rod, floating Bonefish or Infinity Saltwater taper line, and a 10' leader 8-12lb test. Casting near tailing fish will allow you to twitch and very slowly strip in into their path. Hang on! Bonefish love to go on fast runs...

Back to Fly Tying Tutorials