# **How to Choose 50 Flies for Mayfly Season in a Compartment Box**
Mayfly season is one of the most exciting times for fly anglers. As these delicate insects emerge in abundance, trout and other fish species become highly active, feeding aggressively on the surface and just below. To maximize your success, having a well-organized selection of flies in a compartment box is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 50 flies you should carry during mayfly season, ensuring you’re prepared for every stage of the hatch.
## **Understanding the Mayfly Lifecycle**
Before selecting your flies, it’s crucial to understand the mayfly’s lifecycle, which consists of four key stages:
1. **Nymph Stage** – Subsurface, before emergence.
2. **Emerger Stage** – Transitioning from nymph to adult.
3. **Dun Stage** – Freshly hatched adult on the water’s surface.
4. **Spinner Stage** – Mature adult returning to lay eggs before dying.
Each stage requires different fly patterns to imitate the natural behavior of mayflies effectively.
## **The Essential 50 Flies for Mayfly Season**
### **1. Nymph Patterns (15 Flies)**
Nymphs are the most consistent producers since fish feed on them year-round. Key patterns include:
– **Pheasant Tail Nymph (Sizes 12-18)** – A classic, versatile imitation.
– **Hare’s Ear Nymph (Sizes 12-16)** – Great for imitating various mayfly species.
– **Flashback Nymph (Sizes 14-18)** – Adds flash to attract fish in murky water.
– **Copper John (Sizes 12-16)** – Sinks quickly and works in fast currents.
– **Zebra Midge (Sizes 16-20)** – Effective for selective trout.
### **2. Emerger Patterns (10 Flies)**
Emergers are critical when fish are keying in on transitioning insects.
– **RS2 (Sizes 16-20)** – A must-have for selective trout.
– **Barr’s Emerger (Sizes 14-18)** – Excellent for Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs).
– **Klinkhamer Special (Sizes 12-16)** – Works as both an emerger and dry fly.
– **CDC Emerger (Sizes 14-18)** – Mimics the struggling mayfly perfectly.
### **3. Dun Patterns (15 Flies)**
When mayflies are hatching, dry flies become irresistible to rising fish.
– **Adams (Sizes 12-18)** – A universal mayfly imitation.
– **Parachute Adams (Sizes 14-18)** – Highly visible and effective.
– **Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) (Sizes 16-20)** – Essential for early-season hatches.
– **Pale Morning Dun (PMD) (Sizes 14-18)** – A staple for summer hatches.
– **Comparadun (Sizes 14-18)** – A low-profile, realistic pattern.
### **4. Spinner Patterns (10 Flies)**
Spinners fall in large numbers, triggering aggressive feeding.
– **Rusty Spinner (Sizes 14-18)** – A go-to for late-afternoon spinner falls.
– **Trico Spinner (Sizes 18-22)** – Tiny but deadly during summer evenings.
– **Light Cahill Spinner (Sizes 14-16)** – Great for late-season hatches.
## **Organizing Your Compartment Box**
A well-organized fly box ensures quick access to the right pattern. Consider:
– **Dividing by Lifecycle Stage** – Keep nymphs, emergers, duns, and spinners in separate sections.
– **Sizing Matters** – Arrange flies from largest to smallest for easy selection.
– **Waterproof Storage** – Prevents rust and keeps flies in top condition.
## **Final Tips for Mayfly Season Success**
– **Observe the Hatch** – Match the size and color of natural insects.
– **Vary Your Presentation** – Dead-drift nymphs, swing emergers, and skate duns to trigger strikes.
– **Carry Multiple Sizes** – Fish can be selective, so having variations increases success.
By stocking your compartment box with these 50 essential mayfly patterns, you’ll be ready for any hatch this season. Tight lines and happy fishing!
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