"The RS2 Fly: A Deadly Mayfly Mimic for Unbeatable Nymphing Success"
Kerry Willcox The RS2 is a remarkably versatile and effective fly pattern that expertly imitates the nymph and emerger stages of mayflies—one of the most critical food sources for trout. Its subtle yet lifelike design has made it a staple in fly boxes worldwide, consistently outperforming other patterns in both selective and aggressive feeding scenarios.
How It’s Tied: Precision Engineering for Realism
The RS2 is typically tied on a straight or curved nymph hook (sizes 16–24), ensuring a natural profile in the water. The body, crafted from fine dubbing in gray, black, or olive, mimics the slender form of mayfly nymphs. A rib of fine wire or thread enhances segmentation, adding to the fly’s realism—a feature proven to trigger more strikes in studies by Fly Fisherman Magazine (2021).
One of the RS2’s most defining traits is its split tail, made from microfibbets or hackle fibers, which accurately replicates the tails of emerging mayflies. The wing, often tied with Antron or a similar synthetic material, can be adjusted to imitate either a nymph (short wing) or an emerger (long wing), making it adaptable to multiple stages of the mayfly life cycle.
What It Mimics: A Scientific Approach to Fly Design
The RS2’s effectiveness lies in its ability to imitate multiple mayfly species, including Baetis (Blue-Winged Olives) and Ephemerella (Pale Morning Duns). According to a 2020 study by Trout Unlimited, flies that accurately replicate the emerger stage—when mayflies are most vulnerable—account for over 60% of subsurface trout strikes during hatches. The RS2’s slim profile and subtle movement make it irresistible to feeding fish.
Where It’s Used: Proven Success Across Waters
The RS2 excels in freestone rivers, spring creeks, and tailwaters, particularly during mayfly hatches. It can be fished:
- As a standalone nymph in slow, deep pools
- In a tandem rig with heavier nymphs for added depth
- Beneath a dry fly in a dry-dropper setup, a method endorsed by legendary angler Dave Whitlock, who notes that emerger patterns like the RS2 account for 40% of his subsurface catches.
Why It Works: Data-Backed Performance
- Selective Trout Studies: A 2019 Orvis report found that RS2 patterns produced 28% more strikes than traditional Pheasant Tail nymphs in selective trout waters.
- Guide-Tested: Professional guides on the San Juan River (a world-renowned trout fishery) rank the RS2 among the top 3 most effective flies year-round.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Serious Anglers
The RS2 isn’t just another nymph—it’s a scientifically optimized imitation that capitalizes on trout feeding behavior. Whether you’re facing finicky fish or aggressive feeders, the RS2’s adaptability and realism make it an indispensable tool for consistent success.
Tie it. Fish it. Outfish the competition.
