Crazy Charlie - Tan

The Crazy Charlie is a legendary bonefish fly that’s earned a permanent spot in saltwater fly boxes around the world. Originally developed in the Bahamas by Charlie Smith and Bob Nauheim, this pattern was designed to imitate glass minnows and small shrimp—staple prey for bonefish. Its hallmark bead chain eyes help the fly ride hook point up, reducing snags and allowing it to track naturally across sandy bottoms and turtle grass. The Crazy Charlie’s minimalist design—typically featuring a pearlescent body, clear ribbing, and a wing of calf tail or synthetic hair—has spawned countless variations in color, weight, and materials to suit different flats and conditions. For more background on the Crazy Charlie and other must-have bonefish patterns, check out our Guide to the Best Bonefish flies.