Whether I'm fishing still or running water, when it to comes to mayfly patterns, I always find it pays to keep things simple. I give overcomplicated and over-crafted ultra-realistic flights of fancy a very wide berth - knitting and weaving is girls' work. Oh, and detached bodies? Don't get me started. If hours and hours of so-called 'fun' at the vice is more important to you than fish in the net, then by all means go right ahead. I, for one, prefer to concentrate on size, colour and using the apporopriate pattern for the fishing situation in hand. Why not have a go at some of the patterns below?  They're quick and easy to tie, and you'll probably already have the materials, or something close enough. If not, then have a look at the materials below to incorporate in these or your own favourite mayfly patterns.

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Click on the fly to expand. Click on the fly name for dressing and more details..

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