RS2 - Grey

The Most Natural RS2 Colorway — A Perfect Baetis Match

The RS2 in Grey is the most imitative colorway of one of Colorado's most iconic tailwater emerger patterns. 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. The grey body closely matches the natural grey-olive coloration of Baetis nymphs in the pre-emergence stage — making this the go-to RS2 color when trout are feeding selectively on naturals in clear water and bright conditions.

Where the black RS2 excels in low-light and overcast conditions, the grey version shines on bluebird days and in clear, low water when trout can see every detail of the fly. On the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, and Colorado River, this is the pattern that gets eaten when fish are locked onto the natural color of emerging Baetis. At $2.75 each, it's one of the best-value flies you can carry for Colorado's technical tailwaters.

Pattern Details

• Style: Sparse emerger / Baetis and midge pupa imitation
• Color: Grey — natural match for Baetis nymph coloration in clear water
• Profile: Sparse, minimalist — imitates the natural silhouette of emerging Baetis
• 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
• Best in clear water and bright light conditions

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. Reach for the grey version on clear, sunny days and in low, clear water when trout are being most selective — the natural color match makes the difference. Pairs exceptionally well with the black RS2 or a Zebra Midge as a dropper in a two-fly nymph rig.

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