RS2 - Black

Colorado's Most Iconic Tailwater Emerger — In Black

The RS2 in Black is a variation of one of the most important fly patterns ever developed for Colorado's tailwaters. Originally tied by Rim Chung on the South Platte River, the RS2 (Rim's Semblance 2) is a sparse, minimalist emerger that imitates Baetis and midge pupae in the film and just below the surface — exactly where trout feed during a hatch. The black version adds a dark, high-contrast profile that is especially effective in low-light conditions, overcast days, and on heavily pressured water where trout have seen every natural imitation in the box.

At $2.75 each, the RS2 is one of the best-value flies in your box — and one of the most productive. On the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, and Colorado River, this pattern produces fish year-round, but it truly shines during Baetis hatches in fall and spring when trout are rising and feeding selectively in the film. Available in four sizes from #16 to #22 to match the full range of Baetis and midge sizes on Colorado's technical tailwaters.

Pattern Details

• Style: Sparse emerger / Baetis and midge pupa imitation
• Color: Black — high-contrast profile for low-light and pressured water
• Sizes available: #16, #18, #20, #22
• Profile: Sparse, minimalist — imitates the natural silhouette of emerging insects
• Imitates Baetis (Blue-Winged Olive) and midge pupae in the film
• Effective on the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, Colorado River, and most Colorado tailwaters
• Works year-round; peak season fall and spring during Baetis hatches

How to Fish It

Fish the RS2 in the surface film or just below it during Baetis and midge hatches when trout are rising. Trail it behind a dry fly in a dry-dropper rig, or dead-drift it under a small indicator just below the surface. The #16 or #18 covers most standard Baetis sizes; drop to the #20 or #22 on the Frying Pan's technical tailwater when trout are keyed on the smallest naturals. Pairs exceptionally well with a Zebra Midge or Rainbow Warrior as a dropper in a two-fly nymph rig.

Available in store at Glenwood Springs Outdoors, 831 Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO.