It pays sometimes to change things up. Tie something on the line that may not be the best choice. I had always wanted to catch a rainbow on a mouse pattern. Mice produce rainbows in AK but I thought the time frame was off. I figured that spring time to early summer (before the egg drop) would be best. Not the case this past Saturday. Once I tied on a mouse pattern that was it, I never replaced the fly with any other pattern. It didn't catch as many fish as beads but what it did catch was bigger fish. The strikes were hard and ferocious with fish jumping out of the water for the mouse. The largest fish of the day had my rod almost ripped from my hands as I wasn't ready for the take.
There are patterns to stick to during hatches and what not but don't be afraid to tie something meaty on. It may not catch as many fish but it does bring the big ones to the dinner bell.
Enjoy some pics. Never gets old holding a living painting. What colors these fish have!
