The Rainbow Warrior

The Rainbow Warrior was my first commercially available fly pattern, and is still my best seller.

Rainbow Warrior

Despite its flashy looks, it works well for selective tailwater Trout, and of course for eager freestone/pocketwater fish too. This pattern is easy to tie and very effective. The Warrior's flashy body and red thread hot spot don't imitate anything in particular, but that is a good thing. Fish can mistake it for many food forms. I find it works well in waterways with sow bugs, scuds, midge pupae, and even as a chironomid imitation in lakes. The bottom line....don't worry about "why" fish eat it. Just be happy they eat it. Tie a few for your nymph box and I'm confident the Rainbow Warrior will be productive enough to keep you tying them (or buying, if you don't tie. Buy here )