NymphCable Tie Craw

The Cable Tie Craw is a highly effective and eye-catching pattern designed to resemble a crawfish. Its realistic profile, combined with the movement of the materials used, make it irresistible for fish that are preying on crawfish.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Bass, Trout
Cable Tie Craw - Image source: MidCurrent
Image source: MidCurrent

Overview

A realistic crawfish imitation that uses trimmed plastic cable ties as claws for an articulated, rugged profile. The body is typically wrapped with dubbing or chenille, with rubber legs and dumbbell eyes for weight. It's tied on a strong streamer hook or articulated shank and excels for bass and carp. Color it with markers for extra realism.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Bass, Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Crawfish

Materials

Hook: Tiemco 5262, size #6–#10
Thread: UTC 140, color to match natural
Body: Tan/Brown Cable Tie
Legs: Sili legs, pumpkin/orange
Weight: Lead wire, .025
Shell: Solarez Thick Hard UV resin
Eyes: Bead chain, black
Antenna: Natural pheasant tail fibers

Fishing Tips

Season

Best used during warmer months when crawfish are most active.

Presentation

Crawfish are bottom dwellers, so ensure your fly is sinking to the bottom. A slow, bouncing retrieve can mimic a fleeing crawfish.

When to Use

When fishing in waters known to have a high population of crawfish.

Water Type

Can be used effectively in both stillwater and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Consider using a weighted line or adding split shot to ensure the fly sinks to the bottom.

Visibility & Floatation

The Cable Tie Craw is designed to sink and imitate a natural crawfish. The UV resin shell and bead chain eyes add weight, ensuring the fly sinks effectively.