Umpqua McKnight's ER Crab Fly

Overview

The ER Crab is Umpqua's updated version of Jan Isly's raghead crab, made for permit and bonefish. The body is set with an adhesive that stays rigid yet flexible, so a permit crushing the fly will not knock the body loose and block the hook gap.

Permit eat crabs more than almost anything else, and they often refuse flies that land hard or look wrong. The size 2 is the larger ER Crab, which Umpqua recommends for permit in 3 to 8 feet of water, where you need a fly that gets down and holds its shape.

How to Fish It

• Lead the fish: cast well ahead of a cruising permit and let the crab sink into its path.
• Stay still: when the fish sees it, let it sit or make one slow strip. Too much movement often spooks permit.
• Strip-set: set with a long, firm strip when the fish tips down.
• Tackle: a 9 or 10 weight rod with 16 to 20 lb fluorocarbon.

Choosing Color and Size

Tan blends with sand and light bottoms, which is where most permit hunting happens. Size 2 is for permit in 3 to 8 feet of water and windier days.