Hot-headed attractor pattern.  This is a great little fly that looks something like a Bird's Nest... and nothing really like a Bird's Nest.

Anglers love this Stimulator pattern because of its effectiveness and versatility.  It's a great searching pattern when you're unsure of what trout are targeting, and it floats well enough to hold up a nymph tied on as a dropper rig.

Perdigon flies were made popular by Spanish competition anglers because they sink quickly and catch a lot of fish.  Learn to tie the Perdigonish fly here.

The Copper John is the perfect fly in that it doesn't mimic one thing but represents many, and has a little bit of everything: a little flash, a little movement, a little weight.

This Pheasant Tail comes together quickly, is super buggy, and can be altered to your color of choice.

Scuds are an important food source for trout.  Whether you want to add a hot spot (as demonstrated here) or try and match what you're finding in your local waters, you'll be able to use this basic pattern as a jumping off point.

The name of this nymph is not misleading: it is a simple one! But it's also an effective one.

This little nymph fills two things quickly: a fly box, and a trout's mouth.  Tie this baby up in as many colors as possible and get to work.

At the confluence of effectiveness and simplicity is the mighty Hare's Ear.  Here is a riff on the old standard, which will liven things up at the vise and on the water.