# **How to Choose 50 Popular Nymphs: Unweighted and Goldhead, Trout Fishing Flies, Mixed Size**
When it comes to trout fishing, nymphs are among the most effective flies in an angler’s arsenal. Whether you’re targeting wild brown trout in fast-moving streams or stocked rainbows in still waters, selecting the right nymphs can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore **50 popular nymph patterns**—both **unweighted and goldhead**—and provide expert tips on how to choose the best ones for your next fishing adventure.
## **Understanding Nymphs: Unweighted vs. Goldhead**
Nymphs imitate the immature stages of aquatic insects, making them irresistible to trout. They come in two primary styles:
1. **Unweighted Nymphs** – These flies rely on external weight (split shot or weighted lines) to sink. They offer a more natural drift, making them ideal for shallow or slow-moving waters where a subtle presentation is key.
2. **Goldhead Nymphs (Beadhead Nymphs)** – These flies feature a brass or tungsten bead at the head, helping them sink quickly. The flash and added weight make them perfect for deeper pools and faster currents where trout are holding near the bottom.
## **Top 25 Unweighted Nymphs for Trout**
Unweighted nymphs excel in delicate presentations. Here are some must-have patterns:
1. **Pheasant Tail Nymph** – A classic imitation of mayfly nymphs.
2. **Hare’s Ear Nymph** – A versatile pattern with a buggy appearance.
3. **Zebra Midge** – A simple yet deadly small nymph for selective trout.
4. **Copper John** – A flashy attractor with a ribbed body.
5. **Prince Nymph** – A stonefly imitation with white biots.
6. **RS2 (Rim’s Semblance 2)** – A great emerger pattern.
7. **Barr’s Emerger** – Effective in slow-moving waters.
8. **WD-40** – A midge pattern with a slim profile.
9. **Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail** – Adds movement in the water.
10. **Disco Midge** – A UV-enhanced midge for low-light conditions.
11. **Juju Baetis** – A modern blue-winged olive imitation.
12. **Rainbow Warrior** – A bright attractor nymph.
13. **BWO Nymph** – Perfect for matching Baetis hatches.
14. **CDC Pheasant Tail** – Enhanced with CDC for a lifelike drift.
15. **Flashback Nymph** – Adds extra flash to traditional patterns.
16. **Quill Body Nymph** – A realistic mayfly imitation.
17. **Sowbug** – A crustacean pattern for tailwaters.
18. **Scud** – Another great option for trout feeding on crustaceans.
19. **San Juan Worm** – A simple but effective worm imitation.
20. **Brassie** – A copper-wrapped midge pattern.
21. **Black Beauty** – A tiny but deadly midge nymph.
22. **Micro Mayfly** – A small, realistic mayfly nymph.
23. **Top Secret Midge** – A go-to for pressured trout.
24. **Thread Frenchie** – A Euro-nymphing favorite.
25. **Perdigon Nymph** – A slim, fast-sinking pattern.
## **Top 25 Goldhead Nymphs for Trout**
Goldhead nymphs provide extra weight and flash, making them ideal for deep or fast water. Here are the best options:
1. **Beadhead Pheasant Tail** – A weighted version of the classic.
2. **Beadhead Hare’s Ear** – Adds depth penetration.
3. **Beadhead Prince Nymph** – A must-have for stonefly imitations.
4. **Beadhead Copper John** – Sinks fast with extra flash.
5. **Beadhead Zebra Midge** – A weighted midge for deep pools.
6. **Beadhead Rainbow Warrior** – Bright and effective.
7. **Beadhead Perdigon** – A tungsten-weighted version.
8. **Beadhead Juju Baetis** – Great for deep BWO hatches.
9. **Beadhead RS2** – A weighted emerger.
10. **Beadhead Soft Hackle** – Adds movement while sinking.
11. **Beadhead Flashback Hare’s Ear** – Extra flash for murky water.
12. **Beadhead Brassie** – A weighted midge option.
13. **Beadhead San Juan Worm** – Sinks quickly to the bottom.
14. **Beadhead Scud** – Ideal for deep crustacean feeders.
15. **Beadhead Sowbug** – Another great weighted crustacean pattern.
16. **Beadhead Disco Midge** – UV-enhanced and weighted.
17. **Beadhead WD-40** – A deeper midge option.
18. **Beadhead Black Beauty** – A tungsten-weighted midge.
19. **Beadhead Top Secret Midge** – Sinks fast for pressured trout.
20. **Beadhead Micro Mayfly** – A small but weighted mayfly.
21. **Beadhead Frenchie** – A Euro-nymphing staple.
22. **Beadhead Psycho Prince** – A flashy stonefly imitation.
23. **Beadhead Psycho May** – A weighted mayfly pattern.
24. **Beadhead Hot Spot Nymph** – Attracts trout with a bright tag.
25. **Beadhead Squirmy Wormy** – A weighted worm imitation.
## **Choosing the Right Nymphs: Key Considerations**
1. **Water Conditions** – Use **unweighted nymphs** in shallow or slow water and **goldhead nymphs** in deep or fast currents.
2. **Hatch Matching** – Observe the insects present and select nymphs that mimic them.
3. **Size & Color** – Carry a **mixed size selection** (sizes 12-20) and vary colors (natural, flashy, or bright).
4. **Presentation** – Adjust weight (split shot vs. beadhead) based on depth and drift speed.
## **Final Thoughts**
A well-rounded nymph selection is crucial for consistent trout success. By carrying a mix of **unweighted and goldhead nymphs** in various sizes, you’ll be prepared for any fishing scenario. Whether you’re Euro-nymphing, indicator fishing, or tight-lining, these **50 popular nymphs** will help you hook more trout.
For high-quality nymphs, check out **KyleBooker’s premium trout flies**—designed for performance and durability. Tight lines!
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Would you like any modifications or additional details on specific patterns? Happy fishing! 🎣
