Strong Arm Merkin
In Stock • Bozeman, MT
- Designed by Dave Skok as a modern variation of the classic Merkin crab
- Extended chenille “strong arm” imitates a defensive crab posture
- Strong arm also acts as a keel to stabilize the fly during the sink
- Proven permit producer in the Florida Keys, Belize, Cuba, Mexico, and beyond
- Ideal for long, slow strips across sand, turtle grass, and mottled flats
Description
The Strong Arm Merkin was designed by Dave Skok as a modern twist on the classic Merkin-style crab fly, with a unique "strong arm" feature that mimics the natural posture of a fleeing or defensive crab. Originally fished in the Florida Keys, it’s become a go-to pattern in places like Belize, Cuba, and Mexico.
The Strong Arm's defining feature is the chenille claw extending from the back end of the body. The claw, or strong arm, serves multiple purposes. Firstly and most obviously, the claw is a realistic representation of a crab in a defensive posture hoping to deter a predator or latch on to a fish lip that comes too close.
Secondly, and potentially more importantly, the claw acts as a keel for the fly--keeping it more balanced in the water column as it falls. The result is a fly that moves and looks very realistic, routinely fooling many a permit in the Keys and well beyond.
The Strong Arm ranks highly in our list of Top Permit Flies!
