Here’s how I rig nymphs. Overall, the leader should be about as long as the rod and end in a 3X- or 4X-tippet and a pair of nymphs 12 to 18 inches apart. Put the weight in between the nymphs, or 6 inches above the top nymph.

In high water or deep, fast runs, it seems to help to rig the nymphs on short 3- to 4-inch tags (off a blood knot) 12 to 18 inches apart, with weight on a third tag 6 inches or so below the bottom nymph. Regardless of how you rig the nymphs, fasten a strike indicator, yarn- or corky-style, 5 or 6 feet above. Most important, add enough weight to keep the nymphs on the bottom.

As a wise man once observed, “The difference between a great day nymphing and a skunking is often one measly split shot.” Strive for drag-free drifts. Anything less is largely a waste of time.

The secret to successful dry-fly fishing starts with the leader. Generally, 10 to 11 feet overall will work in most situations. Adjust tippet diameter and length to the size and wind resistance of the fly. In other words, shorter and stouter for big, air-resistant attractors, long and skinny for smaller, less wind-resistant patterns. Tippets in 4X, 5X and 6X are most useful for dry-fly work. In low- or clear-water conditions, fluorocarbon offers a distinct edge. Limited to just one cast, I’d work to perfect my reach-cast. Done properly, the reach allows for pinpoint presentations and drag-free drifts. Fussy trout get to see the fly first, instead of the leader, which often makes all the difference. Big Hole trout are not usually pattern-selective or leader-shy, but they sure don’t tolerate unnatural drag.

Regardless, of the rig -- streamer, nymph or dry -- strive to make each cast different. Lengthen the cast. Move a step or two. Change the angle. Change the retrieve. The only exceptions are when you’re casting to fish visibly rising, feeding or resting. The hardest thing for beginners to grasp, beyond mastering the basics (casting, wading, reading the water, fly selection), is to keep moving. Make the first shot count, and then move on.

As I like to say, “When the fishing’s fast, move slow. When the fishing’s slow, move fast.” Above all, keep moving!