# **How to Choose 1 Dozen (12) – Blue-Winged Olive Flies for Fly Fishing**
Fly fishing is an art that requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Among the most effective and versatile dry flies for trout fishing is the **Blue-Winged Olive (BWO)**. These tiny mayflies are a staple in many rivers and streams, making them a must-have in every angler’s fly box.
If you’re looking to stock up on **1 dozen (12) Blue-Winged Olive flies**, you’ll want to ensure you select the best patterns, sizes, and materials for optimal performance. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed choice—whether you’re fishing slow-moving spring creeks or fast-flowing freestone rivers.
## **Why Blue-Winged Olive Flies?**
Blue-Winged Olives (*Baetis* spp.) are among the most prolific mayflies in North America and Europe. They hatch in cool weather, often during overcast days or light rain, making them a reliable food source for trout year-round.
Key reasons to carry BWOs:
✔ **Year-round hatches** – Unlike some mayflies that appear seasonally, BWOs can hatch in spring, fall, and even winter.
✔ **Trout love them** – Their small size (typically #16-#22) makes them a favorite of selective trout.
✔ **Versatile patterns** – They work as dry flies, emergers, and nymphs.
## **Choosing the Right BWO Patterns**
When selecting **1 dozen (12) Blue-Winged Olive flies**, consider these essential patterns:
### **1. Classic BWO Dry Fly**
– **Best for:** Surface feeding trout during a hatch.
– **Key Features:**
– Dun-colored body (olive/gray)
– Blue-dun hackle for buoyancy
– Dark wings for visibility
### **2. BWO Parachute Fly**
– **Best for:** Tricky currents where a delicate presentation is needed.
– **Key Features:**
– Post-style wing for better visibility
– Floats well in choppy water
### **3. BWO Emerger (Soft Hackle or RS2)**
– **Best for:** When trout are feeding just below the surface.
– **Key Features:**
– Sparse, soft hackle for a natural drift
– Tapered body to mimic emerging insects
### **4. BWO Nymph (Pheasant Tail or Hare’s Ear)**
– **Best for:** Pre-hatch or subsurface feeding.
– **Key Features:**
– Weighted or bead-head options for deeper runs
– Natural-looking segmentation
## **Selecting the Right Sizes**
BWOs range from **#14 to #22**, but the most common sizes are **#16-#20**. When buying **1 dozen (12) flies**, consider this breakdown:
– **#16 (4 flies)** – Best for early-season or larger BWOs.
– **#18 (6 flies)** – The most versatile size for most hatches.
– **#20 (2 flies)** – For highly selective trout in clear water.
## **Material Quality Matters**
Not all flies are created equal. When choosing BWOs, look for:
✔ **High-quality hackle** – Ensures better floatation.
✔ **Durable thread wraps** – Prevents unraveling after multiple catches.
✔ **UV-resistant materials** – Helps maintain visibility in low light.
## **Why Choose KyleBooker’s BWO Selection?**
At **KyleBooker**, we craft premium Blue-Winged Olive flies with **precision-tied materials** and **proven fish-catching designs**. Our flies are tested by expert anglers to ensure they perform in real-world conditions.
### **Our Recommended 1-Dozen BWO Pack:**
✅ **4x #16 BWO Dries** – For aggressive feeders.
✅ **6x #18 BWO Parachutes** – The ultimate all-rounder.
✅ **2x #20 BWO Emergers** – For finicky trout.
## **Final Tips for Fishing BWOs**
– **Fish them in low light** – Overcast days or early mornings are best.
– **Use light tippet (6X-7X)** – Especially for smaller sizes.
– **Match the hatch** – Observe real BWOs on the water for size and color.
## **Conclusion**
A well-stocked fly box should always include **1 dozen (12) Blue-Winged Olive flies** in various patterns and sizes. Whether you’re fishing a technical spring creek or a bustling river, having the right BWOs can mean the difference between a slow day and a trophy catch.
For **high-quality, hand-tied BWOs**, check out **KyleBooker’s premium selection**—designed by anglers, for anglers. Tight lines! 🎣
—
**About KyleBooker:**
KyleBooker is a trusted name in premium fly fishing gear, offering **durable, fish-proven flies** for every angler. Explore our collection today and elevate your fly fishing game!