NymphNearnuff Crayfish

The Nearnuff Crayfish is a realistic and highly effective fly pattern that mimics the lifelike movements of a crayfish. Its intricate design and natural colors make it irresistible to predatory fish.

Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty
Advanced
Target Species
Bass, Trout
Nearnuff Crayfish - Image source: Dressed Irons
Image source: Dressed Irons

Overview

A realistic crayfish pattern using mono eyes, claw-shaped zonker or hackle tips, and a dubbed body with rubber legs. Tied low-riding with dumbbell eyes for a bottom-crawling profile. Works well on bass and carp, especially in rivers.

Pattern Characteristics

Advanced Difficulty
Bass, Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Fall
Imitates: Crayfish

Materials

Hook: #04-08 Tiemco 5263
Thread: Brown UTC 140
Eyes: Painted Orange Lead Eyes or Red Pseudo Eyes
Eyes2: Black Crab Shrimp Eyes
Antennae: Black Lifeflex or Spanflex
Flash: Pearl Krystal Flash
Legs: Orange Buggy Legs, Sili Legs or Crazy Legs
Mouth: Tan Zonker Strip
Dubbing: Near Nuff Orange Whitlock SLF Dubbing
Claws: Orange India Hen Back
Hackle: Orange Grizzly Soft Hackle
Tail: Tan Zonker Strip

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly is especially effective during the late spring through early fall when crayfish are most active.

Presentation

The Nearnuff Crayfish should be presented as a drifting or slowly retreating organism trying to hide.

When to Use

Use this fly when fishing in waters known to have a healthy crayfish population.

Water Type

This fly is effective in still or moving water, including rivers, streams, and lakes.

Rigging Suggestions

It is best rigged on a sinking line, making sure it reaches the bottom where crayfish are usually found.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly sinks, and its natural colors make it blend well with the riverbed.