I like it - that will make a good imitation.

I agree and (sorta) disagree.

I do agree that the hook is by far more efficient if it is riding point up, especialy on down and dirty weighted flies. Craws, hellgramites & stones for sure. I do also try to keep pretty much all my streamers and some nymphs point up as well!

On the claws, i make them both in single clumps and seperated. I guess it depends on how much time i have to fool around at the bench. You are right that they do pull together when they are spooked and swimming, but they also have attitude and raise them in a defense stance when at rest on the bottom. You can pretty easily make seperated claws with zonker strips using a few wraps of chenille right at the hook bend to make a lump and then tie the strips to each side. They will clump together while moving but seperate when the fly is at rest.

Don't get me wrong, they catch fish BOTH ways! I tend to use more of the seperated styles when fishing still or slack water when i am using alot of pauses.