# **How to Choose Alba Trout Flies: 6 Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock, Sizes 12 & 14**
When it comes to fly fishing for trout, selecting the right fly can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. One of the most effective patterns for enticing wary trout is the **Alba Trout Fly**, particularly the **Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock** in sizes **12 and 14**. In this guide, we’ll break down why this fly is so effective, how to choose the right size, and when to use it for maximum success.
## **Why the Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock Works**
The **CDC (Cul de Canard) Shuttlecock** is a highly versatile fly pattern that imitates emerging insects, particularly midges and small mayflies. The natural buoyancy of CDC feathers allows the fly to sit perfectly in the surface film, creating subtle movement that trout find irresistible.
The **Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock** adds an extra layer of attraction with its bright quill body, which mimics the segmentation of natural insects while providing a slight flash. This makes it especially effective in low-light conditions or when trout are keying in on smaller, high-visibility prey.
## **Choosing the Right Size: 12 vs. 14**
### **Size 12**
– Best for **larger trout** and **faster water**.
– More visible in **murky or turbulent conditions**.
– Ideal for imitating **medium-sized mayflies** and **caddis emergers**.
### **Size 14**
– Perfect for **clear water** and **selective trout**.
– Mimics **smaller midges** and **tiny mayflies**.
– Works well in **slow-moving pools** where trout inspect flies carefully.
When in doubt, carry both sizes to adapt to changing conditions.
## **When to Fish the Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock**
1. **Early Morning & Late Evening** – The yellow quill stands out in low light, making it deadly during dawn and dusk hatches.
2. **Overcast Days** – The bright body helps trout spot the fly against a dull sky.
3. **During Midge & Mayfly Hatches** – If you see trout sipping small insects off the surface, this fly is a must-try.
4. **As a Dropper Fly** – Pair it with a heavier nymph below for a two-fly rig that covers multiple feeding zones.
## **Presentation Tips**
– **Use a light tippet (5X-7X)** to avoid spooking trout.
– **Dead-drift the fly** with minimal drag for a natural presentation.
– **Add a slight twitch** occasionally to imitate a struggling emerger.
## **Why Choose KyleBooker’s Alba Trout Flies?**
At **KyleBooker**, we hand-tie our **Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock** flies with premium materials for unmatched durability and lifelike movement. Whether you’re targeting wild brown trout or stocked rainbows, our flies are designed to perform in all conditions.
### **Final Thoughts**
The **Alba Trout Fly – Yellow Quilled CDC Shuttlecock** in sizes **12 and 14** is a must-have in any fly angler’s box. Its versatility, visibility, and natural movement make it a go-to pattern for fooling even the most selective trout.
**Grab yours today from KyleBooker and elevate your fly fishing game!**
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Would you like any modifications or additional details on specific fishing techniques? Tight lines! 🎣