1. Because these insects hatch throughout the year you should carry imitations tied in various sizes, colors, and styles. I'd suggest putting them in an entirely separate fly box.
2. Remember that insects hatching in the fall are generally much smaller than those found in the spring. Size 16′s could be huge - 18 to 24 would be far more probable.
3. When fish are actively feeding, flush-floating dries, emerger patterns and cripples will all work.
4. Once you have the right pattern getting a take requires an accurate cast with no drag. With a lot of food in the water, trout are not going to move out of the feeding lane. If you're having problems with accuracy, target fish downstream.
5. A 9-foot 4- or 5-weight outfit with a 12 foot leader is perfect. I buy 9-foot tapered leaders in 4X and add 24 to 30-inches of limp 5X to 7X tippet.
6. If you are getting refusals on flies that have been well presented and seem appear to be the right size, go to a smaller tippet before changing your fly.
7. Using a pattern that is slightly darker than the natural can help you track the fly. If you're still having trouble, tie on two flies with the small imitation as a trailer. I'll typically use a Parachute Adams in size 12 24-inches in front of the BWO.
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