The Pheasant Tail Nymph remains one of the top mayfly nymph imitations around, and it can be fished in running or still water. It has a distinctive ringneck pheasant tail barb. The gold bead head makes it even more effective by adding weight and fish-attracting color. Per 12. Sizes: 12, 14, 16.
This is one of my 'go to' flies. It's not uncommon for me to start and end each fly fishing day with a bead head pheasant tail. It works in the east and the west. If I don't see any activity on the surface I always start with this!
Weight it with split shot 12 inches above and bounce the fly off the bottom. Use a strike indicator to help detect strikes. It works for me. It is important that the fly drifts at or near bottom in my experience. Always adjust your depth to make sure you are on the bottom. I always buy these by the dozen... There is no question about whether the work or not!
This is one of my favorite flies wheather in streams or rivers if the fish are not feeding on the surface, especially if the water is running a little fast and is a little murky.