# **How to Choose Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn Fly Tying Same As Aunt Lydia 20 Colors**
Fly tying is an art that requires precision, creativity, and the right materials. Among the most sought-after materials for crafting realistic crab patterns is the **Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn**, which is known for its durability, vibrant colors, and excellent texture. This yarn is often compared to **Aunt Lydia’s classic fly-tying yarn**, offering similar quality with added benefits.
If you’re looking to tie effective crab flies for saltwater or freshwater fishing, choosing the right yarn is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore how to select the best **Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn** in **20 colors**, ensuring you get the perfect match for your fly patterns.
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## **1. Understanding the Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn**
The **Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn** is a premium synthetic yarn designed specifically for fly tying. It mimics the natural movement and appearance of crab legs and claws, making it an excellent choice for patterns like the **Merkin Crab**, **Kwan**, and other crab imitations.
### **Key Features:**
– **Durable & Non-Tangling** – Unlike traditional yarns, this material resists fraying and maintains its shape underwater.
– **Sparkle Effect** – The subtle flash within the yarn adds an enticing shimmer, attracting predatory fish like permit, bonefish, and redfish.
– **20 Vibrant Colors** – From natural browns and greens to bold oranges and pinks, the wide color selection allows for realistic or high-visibility patterns.
– **Same Quality as Aunt Lydia’s** – Many fly tyers compare it to the classic **Aunt Lydia’s yarn**, but with improved texture and consistency.
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## **2. How to Choose the Right Color for Your Fly Patterns**
With **20 colors available**, selecting the right shade depends on your target species and fishing conditions.
### **Natural & Subtle Colors (Best for Clear Water & Spooky Fish)**
– **Olive, Tan, Brown** – Ideal for mimicking natural crab colors in clear flats or estuaries.
– **Peacock, Gray** – Great for overcast days or murky water where a more muted presentation works best.
### **Bright & High-Visibility Colors (Best for Murky Water or Aggressive Strikes)**
– **Pink, Orange, Chartreuse** – Highly effective in stained water or when targeting aggressive feeders like redfish and snook.
– **White, Yellow** – Excellent for shallow flats where visibility is key.
### **Sparkle & Flash Colors (Best for Attracting Attention)**
– **Pearl, Silver, Gold** – The added flash mimics baitfish scales or crab movement, triggering reaction strikes.
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## **3. Comparing Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Yarn vs. Aunt Lydia’s**
Many anglers wonder how **Wapsi’s yarn** compares to the classic **Aunt Lydia’s fly-tying yarn**. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Yarn | Aunt Lydia’s Yarn |
|———|————————–|——————|
| **Material** | Synthetic, durable | Synthetic, slightly softer |
| **Sparkle Effect** | Yes | No |
| **Color Range** | 20 vibrant options | Limited selection |
| **Texture** | Slightly coarser for better durability | Softer, may fray more easily |
| **Best For** | Saltwater crab patterns, flashy flies | Classic freshwater flies |
While both are excellent, **Wapsi’s version offers more versatility**, especially for saltwater applications where durability and flash matter most.
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## **4. Tips for Tying with Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Yarn**
To get the best results when tying crab flies:
– **Use a Dubbing Loop** – This helps distribute the yarn evenly for a more natural look.
– **Trim for Realism** – Crab legs should be slightly tapered, so trim the yarn at an angle.
– **Combine Colors** – Layering different shades (e.g., olive over tan) can create a more lifelike effect.
– **Add UV Resin** – A light coat of UV resin enhances durability and adds a subtle shine.
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## **5. Final Thoughts: Why This Yarn is a Must-Have**
Whether you’re targeting **permit in the flats or redfish in the marsh**, the **Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn** is a top-tier choice. Its **durability, sparkle effect, and wide color selection** make it superior to many alternatives, including **Aunt Lydia’s**.
By selecting the right color and applying proper tying techniques, you can create **ultra-realistic crab flies** that fool even the wariest fish.
**Ready to upgrade your fly-tying game?** Grab the **Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn in 20 colors** and start crafting unbeatable crab patterns today!
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Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns using this yarn? Let me know in the comments! 🎣 #FlyTying #SaltwaterFlies #MerkinCrab #FlyFishing