What are the top 20 flies for rainbow trout on the Kenai River in August, including their size and color?

Fishing for rainbow trout on the Kenai River in August is a delightful experience, as the river is teeming with life and the trout are actively feeding after the salmon spawn. To increase your catch rate, selecting the right fly is crucial. Here are some top fly choices, along with their recommended sizes and color variations:

1. Bead Head Nymphs - Sizes 12-16, in colors like olive, black, and brown.

2. Rainbow Warrior - Sizes 14-18, in a flashy silver or pink. Check this option on Amazon

3. Egg Patterns - Sizes 6-10, in orange, pink, or chartreuse.

4. Woolly Bugger - Sizes 6-10, in black, olive, or brown.

5. San Juan Worm - Sizes 12-14, in red or brown.

6. Caddis Pupae - Sizes 14-18, in green or brown.

7. Parachute Adams - Sizes 14-18, in gray/white.

8. Hare's Ear Nymph - Sizes 12-16, in tan or olive.

9. Zebra Midge - Sizes 16-20, in black or red.

10. Prince Nymph - Sizes 12-16, in brown or black.

11. Scud Patterns - Sizes 14-18, in olive or gray.

12. Streamers - Sizes 4-8, in white, black, or olive.

13. BWO (Blue Wing Olive) - Sizes 16-18, in olive.

14. Soft Hackle - Sizes 14-16, in brown or yellow.

15. Ant Patterns - Sizes 14-18, in black or brown.

16. Elk Hair Caddis - Sizes 14-16, in tan or olive.

17. Green Butt Skunk - Sizes 6-10, in green/black.

18. Copper John - Sizes 12-16, in red, green, or copper.

19. Sculpin Patterns - Sizes 4-6, in olive or brown.

20. Chubby Chernobyl - Sizes 8-12, in tan or black.

For more insights on using these flies, you can check out this YouTube video about using jerkbait lures for trout that might also help you refine your technique.

Practical Tip: When fishing in the Kenai during August, it's beneficial to match the hatch. Pay attention to the insects and food sources in the area. Carry a variety of flies to adapt to changing conditions and trout preferences.

Remember, every day on the water is a good one when you're fishing for rainbows! Tight lines!