Crafty Shrimp Bendback – Blk/Purp 02
Part of a lineage of shrimp patterns that has evolved on the Texas Gulf Coast, the Crafty Shrimp is a deadly pattern.
Often called “Redfish Crack”, this shrimp pattern fools bonefish, permit, redfish on the flats, and even snook around the mangroves.
This bendback version is extremely effective when a weedless option is necessary (when grass or cover is dense or floating).
Designed to imitate the brown shrimp which are abundant in the saltier seagrass-filled estuaries, it offers a large, realistic profile but still lands softly.
When redfish are tailing in skinny water, it is best to place the Crafty Shrimp right on their nose and let it drop naturally.
Be prepared to set the hook immediately after contact.
| Color | Black / Purple |
|---|---|
| Pattern Type | Bendback |
| Target Species | Bonefish, Permit, Redfish, Snook |
| Use Case | Weedless fishing in dense grass or floating cover |
FAQ
What makes the bendback version of the Crafty Shrimp different from the standard model?
The bendback design allows for a weedless presentation, making it ideal for use in dense grass or floating cover where a traditional shrimp might get snagged.
Is the Crafty Shrimp effective in shallow, clear water?
Yes, it performs well in skinny water when placed directly on the fish’s nose and allowed to drop naturally.
What type of fish does this pattern primarily target?
It is primarily effective on bonefish, permit, redfish, and snook, especially in seagrass-filled estuaries.
Blake Sanderson –
Used this shrimp during a trip to the Gulf Coast and caught several redfish on the flats. The bendback design worked perfectly in thick grass, and the fish took it right away. Very realistic and easy to cast.
Thomas Kerr –
Fished in mangroves with mixed results. It fooled a few snook and permit, but didn’t work as well in very shallow water. Still a solid choice for cover-heavy areas.
Evan Peake –
Great for weedless fishing. The black and purple coloration blends well with the seagrass. Set the hook immediately after contact and the bites were consistent.
Nicola Alsop –
Worked well in open flats but struggled slightly in dense grass. Still better than other shrimp patterns I’ve tried in similar conditions.
Madeleine Morgan –
Caught a permit using this pattern during low tide. The bendback design kept it from snagging, and the fish reacted strongly to the natural movement.