I tie a hex that is a what I would refer to as generic, I studied a handful of recipes and put something together that works. Once you see a few different recipes you can get the basics of what makes the pattern effective. If you do decide to put the time into it I would recomend Jeff "Bear" Andrews hex pattern it is in the archieves in the 4th qtr of 2000 under Bear's hex nymph. It has proven to be a very effective Great lake pattern for smallies, trout(especially BIG browns), steelhead, and salmon.