NymphSimple Golden Stone

A reliable and easy-to-tie stonefly imitation, the Simple Golden Stone is a great fly for targeting trout in rivers and streams. Its realistic profile and enticing movement mimic the natural stonefly nymphs that trout feed on.

Season
Spring, Summer
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
Simple Golden Stone - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

A streamlined stonefly nymph made with golden-brown dubbing, ribbing, and rubber legs. Usually includes a beadhead and may be reinforced with UV resin over the wingcase. It's quick to tie and effective during golden stonefly activity.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Imitates: Stoneflies

Materials

Hook: 3X-long nymph hook (here a Dai-Riki 285), sizes 8-16
Bead: 7/64-inch, black
Weight: Lead-free round wire, .020
Thread: 8/0 or 70 Denier, yellow
Dubbing ball: Australian possum, golden stone
Rib: Ultra Wire, brassie size, gold
Tails: Amber goose biots
Back/Wingpads: pheasant tail fibers, dyed yellow
Body: Australian possum, golden stone

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly is most effective in the spring and summer during stonefly hatches.

Presentation

Dead drift this fly near the bottom using a strike indicator.

When to Use

Use this fly during stonefly hatches or when stonefly nymphs are active in the river.

Water Type

This pattern is effective in rivers and streams.

Rigging Suggestions

Fish this fly on a 9' 3x leader with a strike indicator.

Visibility & Floatation

This fly is designed to sink and imitate a stonefly nymph. The golden color and bead head make it highly visible in various water conditions.