What about adding a tail? with a bead-head it would look a lot like a jig. which are of course killer on crappie. I have used white and silver to some advantage in the early spring. I agree the dry hackle would push more water but the soft would look better. I have had more luck with a soft hackle. Sure wish we could see some pics as well. Sorry bout he camera. bead-chain eyes might help as well. Might help flip it over and make it some what weedless add a stiff straight weed guard like squirrel tail. Of course by the time I get through here it won't even look like the original, lol! Have fun with it. HOSS