Learn how to tie the Crappie Killer fly pattern, including step-by-step instructions, a video tutorial, pictures, and much more. Improve your fly-tying skills here.

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The Crappie Killer is a variation of a fly tied by Jim Misiura. He used Gartside's Super-Secret Stuff as a flash material, but here we will use Hareline's Ice Wing Fiber as a substitute. Chartreuse is a favorite color for warm-water predatory fish.

Material List

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Step One

Begin the Crappie Killer pattern by establishing a thread base from a few eye lengths behind the hook eye to the bend.

Step Two

The first material we’re working with is ostrich plume for the tail. Secure five strands on the bend with roughly a shank-and-a-half’s length of material extending past the curve. Cover the forward-facing material with thread before moving on.

Step Three

Moving on to the body, tie the Flat Diamond Braid piece by the tip at the tail’s base.

Step Four

Finish the Crappie Killer’s body by turning the braid’s tag-end along the shank multiple times with tight, overwrapping laps. Secure and clip the remaining material slightly below the eye.

Step Five

Tie in a clump of Ice Wing flash on the shank with the rear-facing material nearly reaching the tail’s end. Pull the forward-facing fibers rearward, then secure them.

Step Six

Repeat this step on the shank’s underside for the fly’s underbelly, but trim it to roughly the same length as the body.  

Step Seven

Next, create a delta on the saddle hackle’s tip, then secure it near the eye, with the flowy section facing the bend.

Step Eight

Pream the feathers forward, then wrap the fly’s neck several times and clip the excess.

Step Nine

Build up a small head section with the thread to help clean the pattern up, then complete a whip finish.

Step Ten

For the final ingredient, apply the Living Eyes to the head, then coat them with the UV Resin. After curing the eyes with the light, the Crappie Killer is ready to crush warm water panfish.