Fly Fishing for Beginners - Nymphs

Nymphs are flies that represent the insect in the nymph stage of the insect life. Nymph patterns are fished under the water surface, usually near the bottom of the stream or lake. Like dry flies, nymphs are tied in both an imitation and generic (attractor) patterns.

Nymph patterns are usually tied with a weighted material to get the fly to sink. They can also be tied with what is called a bead head. A bead head is a bb-sized, metal ball (usually gold colored) that not only helps add weight to the fly, but also is an attractor for the fish.


Where to get flies

Fly Fishing (468x60)

Orvis - Huge selection of flies

Reel Combo Systems - makers of a unique pretied two fly dropper system especially handy for beginners.

Cabelas - Fly Fishing


Here are the most commonly used nymphs:

Prince Nymph

Pheasant Tail

Hare's Ear

Stone Fly

San Juan Worm