# **How to Choose the Perfect #16 Olive Spinner Fishing Fly: A Guide to Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinners**
As an angler, selecting the right fishing fly can make the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. Among the most effective patterns for trout fishing is the **#16 Olive Spinner**, particularly the **Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinner**. This fly imitates the spent (egg-laying) stage of the mayfly, a crucial food source for trout. In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best Olive Spinner #16, why the Brookside pattern excels, and how to fish it effectively.
## **Understanding the Olive Spinner (#16) and Its Importance**
The **Blue Wing Olive (BWO)** mayfly is one of the most prolific hatches in trout streams, appearing in various sizes (#14–#20). The **#16 Olive Spinner** represents the female mayfly after mating, when it falls spent on the water’s surface. Trout key in on these helpless insects, making the spinner stage a prime opportunity for anglers.
### **Key Features of a Quality Olive Spinner Fly**
When choosing an **Olive Spinner #16**, consider these essential elements:
1. **Realistic Profile** – The fly should closely resemble a natural spinner, with a slender body and spent wings. The **Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinner** achieves this with a delicate silhouette and subtle color variations.
2. **Durable Materials** – Since spinners float on the surface, the fly should be tied with buoyant materials like CDC (Cul de Canard) or polypropylene for extended floatability.
3. **Proper Hook Size & Weight** – A **#16 hook** is ideal for matching most BWO spinner falls. A fine-wire hook ensures a natural drift while maintaining strength.
4. **Accurate Coloration** – The body should have an olive or grayish-olive hue, with a slight sheen to mimic the natural insect. The Brookside version incorporates subtle dubbing and ribbing for added realism.
## **Why the Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinner Stands Out**
The **Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinner** is a top-tier pattern for several reasons:
– **Superior Tying Technique** – Expertly tied with high-quality materials, this fly offers a lifelike appearance that fools even selective trout.
– **Excellent Floatation** – CDC fibers and a sparse wing design keep it riding high on the water, just like a natural spinner.
– **Versatility** – Effective in both still waters and moving streams, making it a must-have in any fly box.
## **How to Fish the #16 Olive Spinner Effectively**
1. **Match the Hatch** – Observe the water for spinner falls, typically occurring in late morning or early evening. Look for spent mayflies floating downstream.
2. **Dead-Drift Presentation** – Cast upstream and allow the fly to drift naturally without drag. A **light tippet (5X–6X)** ensures a stealthy approach.
3. **Use a Spinner Fall Rig** – In heavy spinner falls, fish may ignore single flies. Try a **two-fly setup** with an emerger or nymph below the spinner.
4. **Target Slow Pools & Eddies** – Spinners often accumulate in calm water, making these prime feeding zones for trout.
## **Final Thoughts**
The **#16 Olive Spinner**, especially the **Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinner**, is an indispensable fly for trout anglers. By selecting a well-tied pattern and presenting it naturally, you can capitalize on one of the most reliable mayfly stages. Whether you’re fishing spring creeks or freestone rivers, this fly should be a staple in your collection.
For premium-quality flies that deliver results, check out **KyleBooker’s selection of Brookside Blue Wing Olive Spinners**—designed for anglers who demand precision and performance. Tight lines!
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