I'm pretty crappy with my fly rod but I get upstream of any pools and can drift a topwater fly and get some attention from the trout. If the river/pond is big enough I will use French spinners or rooster tails, the brightness of the lure depends on water clarity; I fish in rivers with tannin from the pine trees so the water is dark,bright spinners seem to work well. If I'm low on energy or need a hand to hold my beverage, a simple hook with salmon eggs or worms drifting over the deeper spots works for me. Bottom line, try some of these contributors suggestions until you find what works in your area. Keep a log with weather and water conditions and you will dial in your set-up.

I don't have much luck tying blood knots. I've seen a couple of jigs, just curious if one stands out. Happy fishing!