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FLY FISHING FLIES NYMPH MIDGE HIGH LAKES BROWN CUSTOM TIED SIZE 18

# **How to Choose Fly Fishing Flies: Nymph, Midge, High Lakes, Brown, Custom Tied Size 18**

Fly fishing is an art that requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Among the most crucial components of a successful fly fishing setup are the flies themselves. Whether you’re targeting high-altitude lakes or chasing elusive brown trout, selecting the right fly can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best **nymphs, midges, and custom-tied flies in size 18** for high-lake brown trout fishing—ensuring you maximize your success on the water.

## **Understanding the Basics: Nymphs and Midges**

### **1. Nymphs: The Subsurface Powerhouse**
Nymphs imitate the immature stages of aquatic insects, making them a staple in any fly angler’s arsenal. When fishing high lakes, brown trout often feed below the surface, making nymphs an excellent choice.

– **Key Features of Effective Nymphs:**
– **Realistic Profile:** Choose nymphs with natural segmentation and lifelike movement.
– **Weighted vs. Unweighted:** In deeper lakes, weighted nymphs help get down to feeding zones quickly.
– **Color & Size:** For high lakes, **olive, black, and brown** nymphs in **size 18** mimic common prey like mayflies and caddis larvae.

### **2. Midges: The Tiny but Mighty Option**
Midge larvae and pupae are a year-round food source, especially in cold, high-altitude waters. Brown trout key in on these small insects, making midge patterns essential.

– **Why Size 18 Midges Work:**
– **Ultra-Small Profile:** Trout in clear lakes scrutinize their food—smaller flies appear more natural.
– **Pupa vs. Larva Patterns:** Carry both to match different stages of midge development.
– **Color Selection:** Black, red, and olive midges are particularly effective.

## **High Lakes & Brown Trout: What to Look For**

Fishing in **high-altitude lakes** presents unique challenges—clear water, selective trout, and often sparse insect activity. Here’s how to adapt:

– **Match the Hatch:** Observe the water for emerging insects. If midges are hatching, switch to a **size 18 midge pupa**.
– **Depth Matters:** Use a **slow-sinking line or indicator rig** to keep nymphs in the strike zone.
– **Stealth Approach:** High-lake trout are wary—fine tippets (6X-7X) and delicate presentations are key.

## **The Advantage of Custom-Tied Flies**

While pre-tied flies work, **custom-tied nymphs and midges** offer distinct advantages:

– **Tailored to Local Conditions:** A local fly tyer can replicate exact insect species in your fishing area.
– **Superior Materials:** Custom flies often use higher-quality hooks, threads, and dubbing for durability.
– **Unique Patterns:** Some brown trout in high lakes see heavy pressure—uncommon custom patterns can trigger strikes when standard flies fail.

## **Final Tips for Selecting the Right Fly**

1. **Carry Variety:** Pack multiple **size 18 nymphs and midges** in different colors.
2. **Observe & Adapt:** If trout are ignoring your fly, switch to a smaller or differently colored pattern.
3. **Prioritize Quality:** Invest in well-tied flies (like those from **KyleBooker**) for better hookups and longevity.

## **Conclusion**

Choosing the right fly—whether a **nymph, midge, or custom-tied pattern**—can dramatically improve your success when targeting brown trout in high lakes. By understanding insect behavior, matching the hatch, and utilizing **size 18 flies**, you’ll be well-equipped to fool even the most selective fish.

For premium, hand-selected flies designed for high-lake brown trout, check out **KyleBooker’s custom-tied collection**—your next trophy catch might just be a fly change away!

**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣