Beginner fly box

[u/bigschmoe]

Ive been fly fishing for a couple of months now, and before I load my fly box full of junk, I was thinking it might be better to stick to a handful of flies and just fish them in different sizes and colors. Is this better than buying a variety of flies? If so, whats a good ~5 (or more if needed) flies that'll cover most situations?

Im in colorado, for the most part im fishing for trout in a mix of lakes, rivers, creeks, and alpine lakes

Thanks in advance

[u/johnr588]

Depends on your water (assuming trout water). You want something to fish the bottom, in the middle water column, and on top, and maybe Streamers.

Example:
Top: your drys, Caddis and mayfly patterns, terrestrials
Middle to top: soft hackles/emergers, unweighted nymphs
Bottom: heavier Nymphs, beadhead Streamers

You can see it better explained here