emerger
RS2
The RS2 (Rim's Semblance 2) is a devastatingly simple emerger pattern that hangs in the surface film imitating a mayfly struggling to shed its shuck. The CDC or poly yarn wing tuft and sparse beaver fur body create a delicate silhouette that fools the most selective tailwater trout.
Originated by Rim Chung, 1970s
Recipe
- HookEmerger hook (TMC 2488) · Tiemco
- ThreadGray or olive tying thread 8/0 or 70 denier · Semperfli
- TailBrown microfibbets, split
- BodyAdams gray or olive dubbing · Hareline
- WingWhite or dun CDC / snowshoe
History
Rim Chung developed the RS2 in the 1970s for the demanding tailwater trout of Colorado's South Platte River. The name stands for 'Rim's Semblance, version 2.' Its sparse design was revolutionary — proving that less material often catches more fish on pressured water.
Tying overview
Tie in a micro-tail of hackle fibers, dub a wispy beaver body, and tie a small CDC or poly yarn wing tuft at the thorax.
Fishing tips
Fish the RS2 unweighted in the surface film, either as a standalone or trailing 18 inches behind a visible dry fly. On tailwaters, it is deadly during BWO and midge emergence. Watch for subtle sipping rises and present with a drag-free drift.