"Master the RS2 Fly: The Ultimate Nymph and Emerger Pattern for Mayfly Hatches"
Jimmy Hewitson Introduction
The RS2 is a subtle yet highly effective fly pattern designed to imitate the nymph and emerger stages of mayflies. Its versatility and realistic profile make it a favorite among anglers, particularly during mayfly hatches. Below, we break down how it’s tied, what it mimics, and where it excels on the water.
How to Tie the RS2
The RS2 is tied on a straight or curved nymph hook, typically in sizes 16 to 24. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of its construction:
- Body: Fine dubbing in colors like gray, black, or olive forms the slender profile. A rib of fine wire or thread can be added for segmentation.
- Tail: Microfibbets or hackle fibers create a split tail, mimicking the natural mayfly.
- Wing: A tuft of Antron or similar synthetic material serves as the wing. It can be left long for an emerger profile or trimmed short for a nymph imitation.
- Head: A simple thread head, secured with a whip finish and head cement, ensures durability.
This minimalist yet precise design allows the RS2 to effectively imitate multiple mayfly stages.
What the RS2 Mimics
The RS2 excels at replicating:
- Nymph Stage: Its slim body and split tail closely resemble mayfly nymphs.
- Emerger Stage: The extended wing material mimics a mayfly transitioning to adulthood.
Because it can imitate multiple life stages, the RS2 is adaptable to various mayfly species, making it a reliable choice in diverse fishing conditions.
Where and How to Fish the RS2
Best Locations:
- Rivers and streams with active mayfly hatches.
- Tailwaters and spring creeks where mayflies are prevalent.
Fishing Techniques:
- Nymphing: Fished alone or in a tandem rig with other nymphs.
- Dry-Dropper Setup: Suspended beneath a dry fly for emerger presentations.
- Euro Nymphing: Effective in high-visibility water due to its realistic profile.
Conclusion
The RS2 is a must-have fly for any angler targeting trout during mayfly hatches. Its simple yet precise design, combined with its ability to imitate multiple life stages, makes it a versatile and deadly pattern. Whether you’re nymphing deep or fishing emergers near the surface, the RS2 delivers consistent results.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different colors and wing lengths to match local mayfly species for even greater success!
