NymphBurk's Aggravator Prince

The Aggravator Prince is a highly effective nymph pattern that can mimic a variety of aquatic insects. Its flashy body attracts fish in clear and stained water alike. It provides a great profile and movement, making it irresistible to trout.

Season
Spring, Fall
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Burk's Aggravator Prince - Image source: Charlies Fly Box
Image source: Charlies Fly Box

Overview

Burk's Aggravator Prince is a flashy and high-contrast take on the classic Prince Nymph. It swaps the traditional brown goose biots for hot-colored ones (like chartreuse or red) and incorporates a flashy body material such as Lite-Brite or Ice Dub. The thorax is typically bulked up with peacock or synthetic dubbing, and rubber legs or bright hot spots are often added for extra attraction. It's tied on a curved or standard nymph hook with a bead head for weight, making it a great attractor nymph for dirty or fast-moving water.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Fall
Imitates: Mayflies, Stoneflies
Variant of: Prince Nymph

Materials

Hook: Hanák H 400BL, size #12–#16
Thread: Black Veevus 14/0
Tail: Brown goose biots
Ribbing: Gold oval tinsel
Body: Peacock herl
Throat: Brown hen hackle
Bead: Gold tungsten bead, size to match hook

Fishing Tips

Season: Spring and Fall

Presentation: Dead drift or swing

When to Use: When mayflies and stoneflies are active

Water Type: Effective in both stillwater and moving water

Rigging Suggestions: Can be used as a dropper off a dry fly or as the lead fly in a nymphing rig

Visibility & Floatation: This is a sinking pattern. The beadhead helps it get down quickly in faster, deeper water.