12 Mixed Fishing flies perfect for a washing line rig, 8 Varieties, Mixed Size
# **How to Choose 12 Mixed Fishing Flies Perfect for a Washing Line Rig – 8 Varieties, Mixed Size**
When it comes to fly fishing, selecting the right flies can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. For anglers using a **washing line rig**—a highly effective setup for stillwater trout fishing—having a well-balanced selection of flies is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose **12 mixed fishing flies** in **8 different varieties and mixed sizes** to maximize your catch rate.
## **Understanding the Washing Line Rig**
The washing line rig is a popular method in stillwater fly fishing, where a buoyant fly (often a **Booby or Foam Beetle**) is used as the point fly, followed by a team of **wet flies or nymphs** suspended at different depths. This setup mimics a natural food chain, attracting trout from various water columns.
To optimize this rig, your fly selection should include:
– **1-2 Buoyant point flies** (to keep the rig afloat)
– **4-5 Wet flies/nymphs** (mid-depth attractors)
– **3-4 Small emergers or buzzers** (for subtle presentations)
– **1-2 Flashy lures** (to trigger aggressive takes)
## **8 Essential Fly Varieties for Your Mixed Selection**
Here’s a breakdown of the **8 key fly types** you should include in your **12-fly mixed pack**:
### **1. Booby Flies (Size 8-10)**
– **Why?** These buoyant flies keep the rig near the surface, making them ideal as point flies.
– **Best Colors:** White, Pink, or Chartreuse for visibility.
### **2. Diawl Bach Nymphs (Size 12-14)**
– **Why?** A classic stillwater pattern that imitates midge pupae.
– **Best Colors:** Olive, Black, or Red.
### **3. Buzzers (Size 12-16)**
– **Why?** Essential for imitating hatching midges.
– **Best Colors:** Black, Olive, or Bloodworm Red.
### **4. Hare’s Ear Nymph (Size 10-14)**
– **Why?** A versatile, natural-looking fly that mimics various aquatic insects.
– **Best Colors:** Natural brown or olive.
### **5. Damsel Nymph (Size 10-12)**
– **Why?** Trout love damselfly nymphs, especially in warmer months.
– **Best Colors:** Light green or olive.
### **6. Blob Flies (Size 8-10)**
– **Why?** Highly effective as an attractor with bright, flashy colors.
– **Best Colors:** Pink, Orange, or White.
### **7. CDC Emergers (Size 14-16)**
– **Why?** Perfect for imitating insects transitioning from nymph to adult.
– **Best Colors:** Grey or Olive.
### **8. Flashback Pheasant Tail (Size 12-14)**
– **Why?** Adds extra sparkle to imitate emerging nymphs.
– **Best Colors:** Copper or Gold.
## **How to Mix & Match Your 12 Flies**
A well-balanced **12-fly selection** for a washing line rig should include:
– **2 Booby Flies** (for the point)
– **2 Diawl Bach Nymphs**
– **2 Buzzers**
– **1 Hare’s Ear Nymph**
– **1 Damsel Nymph**
– **2 Blob Flies**
– **1 CDC Emerger**
– **1 Flashback Pheasant Tail**
This mix ensures you have options for different water conditions, light levels, and trout feeding behaviors.
## **Final Tips for Success**
– **Vary depths** – Adjust leader lengths to cover different water layers.
– **Change colors** – If trout ignore natural tones, switch to brighter flies.
– **Observe the water** – Match your flies to visible insect activity.
By carefully selecting **12 mixed flies from these 8 varieties**, you’ll be well-prepared for a productive day on the water. For high-quality flies designed for washing line rigs, check out **KyleBooker’s premium fly selection**—crafted for serious anglers.
Happy fishing! 🎣