If a trout were human, they’d be the pickiest restaurant critics imaginable.

Meaning, if you aren’t serving what they’re hungry for, chances are they aren’t going to eat. Heck, they might not even look at the food (flies) you’re presenting at all. Harsh, we know. 

So, if you’re looking to become a successful angler, it’s essential that you have a well-stocked fly box for any season. Still, don’t be mistaken when we say “well-stocked” — we’re not talking about quantity. If you have too many flies in your box, you’re probably going to face confusion from an overload of choices. As a result, you’ll likely spend more time on the side of the river accidentally poking yourself as you fish through your box, rather than poking trout’s lips as you fish through the river. 

Instead, show up to your fishing spot with as few quality flies as possible—from both an entomology and a versatility perspective.

When we mention entomology, we’re suggesting you start by thinking about the insects (midges, mayflies, caddis…etc) you might encounter to make sure you’re prepared. Then fill your box with the patterns that ensure you’re covered in most scenarios, year round. That’s your first key to continued success. 

The second key to your continued success is to fill your boxes with versatile fly patterns—patterns like the six we list below, as well as the impressionistic and search patterns discussed in our Four Kinds of Fishing Flies free article. If you aren’t familiar with the four types of fishing flies, having an understanding of the differences between imitative, impressionistic, search patterns, and attractor fly patterns (see images below) will REALLY help you with your ability to select the right flies, and as a result, your ability to catch trout.