The Last Chance Cripple
with Rene' Harrop - October 1, 2006

In fly tying, specific imitation is driven by observation and logic. During a mayfly hatch, close scrutiny of the water reveals a sizable portion of emerging duns that are not successful in completely freeing themselves from the nymphal shuck. In this crippled condition, they are incapable of leaving the water. Logically, this vulnerability makes them more attractive to a hungry trout than a healthy winged insect that can fly to safety in a mere instant.

The Last chance Cripple is characterized by an abdomen that duplicates the form and color of the nymph.The thorax, wings, and hackle represent a partially emerged dun in shape and coloration. The buoyant CDC wings provide excellent flotation and visibility when fished on choppy water or during low light conditions. These features also cause it to be a perfect indicator fly when a corresponding nymph is suspended from the hook bend.

The colors of the Last Chance Cripple can be adjusted to effectively match any mayfly that emerges on the water.

Tying Recipe for Last Chance Cripple

Hook: TMC 100BL
Thread: 8/0 Uni-thread
Tail: Sparse tuft of Trouthunter C.E.N. dubbing over three Wood Duck fibers
Abdomen: Stripped goose biot or turkey biot tied to appear rather fuzzy.
Thorax: Trouthunter Professional Dry Fly Dubbing
Wings: Paired CDC feathers set at a forward angle over the eye.
Hackle: Whiting Hackle


Rene' Harrop
House of Harrop
33 W 4th N
St. Anthony, Idaho 83445
Tel: 208 624 3537
Fax: 208-624-3455
www.houseofharrop.com