NymphPrince Nymph

The Prince Nymph is a classic attractor nymph pattern that imitates a variety of aquatic insects, including stonefly and mayfly nymphs. Its biot tail, peacock body, and flashy components make it one of the most reliable nymphs for prospecting and active feeding situations.

Season
Year Round
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Prince Nymph - Image source: The Feather bender
Image source: The Feather bender

Overview

The Prince Nymph is a highly adaptable pattern—while the classic version uses peacock herl, gold wire, and goose biots, many tiers experiment with variations like purple or red bodies, flashback wingcases, or rubber legs for added movement. You can also adjust bead color (gold, black, copper) and wing material (goose biots, synthetics) to suit local conditions and personal preference, making it a versatile staple in any fly box.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Year Round
Imitates: Various aquatic insects

Materials

Hook: Daiichi 1560, size #12–#18
Thread: UTC 70 any color
Under body: Lead free wire, .25
Tail: Brown goose biots
Ribbing: Gold/Silver oval tinsel
Body: Peacock herl
Hackle: Brown hen hackle
Wing: White goose biots
Bead: 3mm Tungsten Gold

Fishing Tips

Season

Year Round

Presentation

Dead drift under a strike indicator or tight line nymphing.

When to Use

The Prince Nymph is a good all-around nymph to use when no specific hatch is on. It can also effectively imitate a variety of nymphs and larvae.

Water Type

Effective in both stillwaters and moving waters.

Rigging Suggestions

Works well as the top fly in a two-fly setup with a smaller, more specific pattern trailing behind.

Visibility & Floatation

The fly sinks well and is highly visible due to its peacock herl body and white biot wings.

Additional Videos