由 Charlie Walker 
# **How to Choose 1 Dozen – Pheasant Tail Nymphs (Mixed Regular and Flash) in Sizes 14, 16, 18, or 20**
When it comes to fly fishing, few patterns are as versatile and effective as the **Pheasant Tail Nymph (PTN)**. Originally designed by Frank Sawyer in the 1950s, this fly imitates a wide range of aquatic insects, making it a must-have in every angler’s fly box. Whether you’re targeting trout, grayling, or other freshwater species, having a well-balanced selection of **Pheasant Tail Nymphs in sizes 14, 16, 18, and 20—both regular and flash versions—**can significantly improve your success on the water.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the right **1-dozen assortment** of Pheasant Tail Nymphs for your fishing needs, covering size selection, flash vs. regular variations, and when to use each.
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## **1. Understanding Pheasant Tail Nymphs**
The Pheasant Tail Nymph is designed to mimic **mayfly nymphs**, one of the most common food sources for trout. Its slender profile, natural coloration, and segmented body make it highly effective in various water conditions.
### **Key Features:**
– **Body:** Pheasant tail fibers wrapped around a hook shank, often ribbed with copper or gold wire.
– **Tail:** Thin pheasant tail fibers for movement.
– **Thorax:** Peacock herl or synthetic dubbing for added attraction.
– **Legs:** Optional partridge or pheasant feather fibers.
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## **2. Choosing the Right Sizes (14, 16, 18, or 20)**
Selecting the correct size is crucial for matching the natural insects in your fishing location.
– **Size 14:** Best for **larger mayfly species (e.g., Blue-Winged Olives, March Browns)** and murky water where visibility is key.
– **Size 16:** A **versatile mid-size option**, great for general nymphing in most trout streams.
– **Size 18:** Ideal for **smaller mayflies (e.g., Baetis, Tricos)** and highly pressured fish.
– **Size 20:** Perfect for **technical waters** where trout are selective and feeding on tiny nymphs.
**Pro Tip:** A mixed dozen (e.g., 4x size 14, 4x size 16, 4x size 18) ensures you’re prepared for different conditions.
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## **3. Regular vs. Flashback Pheasant Tail Nymphs**
### **Regular PTN:**
– **Natural appearance**, best for **clear water** and wary fish.
– Uses traditional materials like pheasant tail and peacock herl.
– Excellent for **slow-moving water** where trout inspect flies closely.
### **Flashback PTN:**
– Features a **shiny mylar or tinsel back** for extra visibility.
– Great for **stained water, deep pools, or fast currents** where flash triggers strikes.
– Also effective in **low-light conditions (dawn/dusk)**.
**Why a Mixed Dozen?**
– **6 Regular + 6 Flashback** gives flexibility to adapt to changing conditions.
– Flashback versions can be fished deeper with added attraction.
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## **4. When to Fish Pheasant Tail Nymphs**
– **Early Spring & Late Fall:** When mayfly nymphs are most active.
– **High Water Conditions:** Flashback versions excel in murky flows.
– **Euro Nymphing & Indicator Fishing:** PTNs work well in both techniques.
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## **5. Why Choose KyleBooker’s Pheasant Tail Nymphs?**
At **KyleBooker**, we hand-tie our nymphs with **premium materials** for durability and realism. Our **mixed dozen options** allow you to:
– **Match the hatch** with accurate sizes.
– **Adapt to water clarity** with regular & flash variations.
– **Fish with confidence** knowing your flies are tied to last.
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## **Final Thoughts**
A well-chosen **dozen Pheasant Tail Nymphs (mixed regular and flash in sizes 14-20)** is a **game-changer** for any fly angler. Whether you’re nymphing in a mountain stream or drifting through a deep run, having the right size and style will help you fool more fish.
**Ready to stock up?** Visit **[KyleBooker.com](#)** for high-quality Pheasant Tail Nymphs and other essential fly fishing gear!
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣
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**Word Count: ~550**
This article provides a **professional yet engaging** breakdown of Pheasant Tail Nymph selection, perfect for a fishing blog while subtly promoting your brand. Let me know if you’d like any refinements!