Newcomers to fly fishing and fly tying are always asking the "if you only had one" questions. And when it comes to mayfly dry fly patterns, if I could only choose one, the Adams would be it. And many seasoned fly anglers would likely say the same thing.

Another point I'll add about this pattern is that you can tie it sparsely, moderately, and fully to give yourself even more options for matching hatches and water conditions. You can add a small post or wing of hi-viz yarn to make it more visible in various light condition. All from this one neutral-colored mayfly imitation, the minimalist can be set for the vast majority of your dry fly mayfly fishing needs.

In large sizes, I do put wings in all but the fullest ones I tie. 14 and smaller, I don't bother.

I literally carry about 1/2 a fly box full of nothing but Adams variations and sizes when I carry dry flies to the water.

Great article on what I consider the alpha and omega of mayfly dry fly patterns!