Veverka's Mantis Shrimp

The Veverka Mantis Shrimp is a proven flats pattern built to imitate one of the most protein-rich prey items on the flats. Designed by Bob Veverka, this fly has a lifelike, translucent profile and a balanced build that lets it sink quickly while still moving naturally. We tie ours with a craft fur wing, barred rubber legs, 3D Living Eyes and subtle flash to give it just enough motion and visibility to grab attention without looking unnatural. This pattern shines when fish are keyed in on shrimp and mantis shrimp along sandy flats, coral edges, and mixed bottoms. It’s especially effective for selective bonefish and permit that inspect a fly before committing. Fished with short, deliberate strips, Veverka's Mantis Shrimp stays in the strike zone and looks like an easy meal.