Midge / EmergersSparkle Wing RS2

The Sparkle Wing RS2 is a variation of Rim Chung's legendary RS2 emerger that adds a subtle flash element to this already deadly pattern. This streamlined design features a white fluorofiber tail that suggests a trailing shuck, a slim grey superfine dubbing body, and a wing of pearl mini flat braid that provides flash and visibility while maintaining the pattern's essential minimalist profile. The sparse construction and subdued colors make it highly effective on pressured fish.

Overview

This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box takes the proven RS2 foundation and enhances it with modern materials. The original RS2 (Rim's Semblance 2) is one of the most effective small fly patterns ever designed, and this sparkle wing version adds just enough flash to catch attention without overdoing it. The pearl mini flat braid wing provides both the visual cue of developing wings that emergers display and a subtle attracting element that can make the difference on selective trout. The pattern remains intentionally sparse - resist the urge to overdress it. The Tiemco 101 hook provides a wide gape relative to its small size, improving hookup ratios on tiny flies. The white fluorofiber tail suggests the trailing shuck of an emerging mayfly while also serving as a subtle visual cue for the angler.

Fishing Tips

Season

Effective year-round, particularly during Baetis (BWO) hatches in spring and fall, and midge emergences throughout the year.

Presentation

Fish dead drift in the surface film or just below. The pattern can be greased to float or left untreated to fish in or just under the film. During emergence activity, position the fly in feeding lanes where emerging insects concentrate.

When to Use

Select this pattern when trout are feeding on small emergers and refusing more visible patterns. Particularly effective during sparse hatches when fish have time to inspect offerings, and on heavily pressured waters where subtlety wins.

Water Type

Versatile pattern for both moving water and stillwater. Excels on technical tailwaters, spring creeks, and educated stillwater trout. Works well in slow to moderate currents where emergers accumulate.

Rigging Suggestions

Fish on a 12-15 foot leader tapering to 6X-7X fluorocarbon tippet. Can be fished alone, as part of a two-fly rig with a slightly larger dry fly above, or suspended under an indicator for stillwater applications.

Visibility & Floatation

The pearl flat braid wing provides some visibility for the angler, though this remains a challenging fly to track. The sparse design allows it to sit naturally in the surface film like a real emerger.