I prefer to use a Provo River bounce or “drop-shot” nymphing rig over a standard nymphing rig for several reasons described below:

First, the nymphs drift more realistically because they are suspended from the leader at about a ninety degree angle. The nymphs are also the first part of your rig that a trout sees, increasing the likelihood that a trout will take your nymphs before spotting your leader or weights.

Second, the rig sinks to the bottom quicker and effectively fishes for almost the entire length of a drift. Since the split shot weights are located at the very bottom of the rig, the nymphs instantly get down into the bottom strike zone. The rig also effectively fishes downstream of your standing
position. A standard nymph rig will ineffectively fish downstream of your standing position because the current will apply force to the leader and raise your nymphs up off the bottom.

Third, I know the exact depth of the water column my nymphs are drifting in. With a standard nymph rig, you never really know the exact depth of water your nymphs are in.

Last, the rig rarely snags the bottom and is also very easy to wiggle free when it does snag. Because the weights are moving along the bottom vertically, instead of horizontally, they are less likely to snag in rocks and are more likely to wiggle free when pulled. Your flies are also less
likely to get snagged, and it’s a lot easier to wiggle weights free from debris and rocks than hooks.

The figure above shows you exactly how to tie a bounce nymphing rig. It’s not the best nymphing rig for every water type, but if you use it in a fast river run, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

More information on other notable nymph patterns can be found in my guide book SIMPLE NYMPHING FOR TROUT IN RIVERS & STREAMS.

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