SaltwaterMagnum Mantis Shrimp
The Magnum Mantis Shrimp is Bob Chicone's large-profile crustacean imitation designed for targeting permit and other large saltwater predators that feed on mantis shrimp. This elaborate pattern features dazzle brass eyes for weight and flash, chartreuse arctic fox mouth parts, mono crab eyes for the rear eyestalks, two styles of rubber legs for maximum movement, a wireless dubbing brush body combined with Estaz chenille, all finished with UV resin for durability. The chartreuse coloration mimics the vibrant appearance of live mantis shrimp.
Year Round
Advanced
Permit, Tarpon, Snook, Jacks
Overview
This Charlie Craven demonstration of Bob Chicone's pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases an advanced saltwater pattern designed to imitate one of the most prized prey items for permit. Mantis shrimp are powerful crustaceans that permit actively hunt in sand and rubble bottoms. The magnum size of this pattern addresses situations where larger presentations trigger more aggressive takes. The combination of arctic fox and multiple rubber leg materials creates incredible movement in the water, while the dazzle brass eyes provide the necessary weight to sink into the strike zone. The mono crab eyes at the rear accurately replicate the prominent eyestalks of the natural.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Umpqua XS435
Thread: Mono Thread, .006
Eyes: Dazzle Brass Eyes, silver 5/32
Mouth Parts: Arctic Fox, chartreuse
Rear Eyes: Crab Eyes (mono), large tan or amber
Legs: Rubber Legs (round), chartreuse barred black medium
Legs 2: Chicone's Micro Crush Legs, chartreuse/clear
Body: Wireless Dubbing Brush, chartreuse
Body 2: Estaz Chenille, crustacean tan
Resin: Solarez Bone Dry Plus
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round in tropical and subtropical waters where mantis shrimp are present. Particularly productive when fish are actively feeding on crustaceans around coral rubble, sandy flats, and reef edges.
Presentation
Cast ahead of cruising or tailing fish and let the fly sink to the bottom. Use short, slow strips with pauses to let the fly settle and pulse. The multiple leg materials create enticing movement even when stationary.
When to Use
Select this pattern when targeting permit in deeper water or when fish are keyed in on larger crustacean prey. Also effective for tarpon, snook, and jacks around structure where mantis shrimp are common.
Water Type
Designed for saltwater flats and reef environments, particularly over sand, coral rubble, and around mangrove edges where mantis shrimp burrow and hunt.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 9-foot leader tapering to 16-20 lb fluorocarbon for permit, or heavier for tarpon. The weighted eyes get the fly down quickly but may require lighter tippet in very shallow conditions.
Visibility & Floatation
The chartreuse coloration and flash from the dazzle eyes provide attraction while the sink rate keeps the fly in the strike zone. The UV resin coating adds durability for multiple fish catches.
