Techniques and tips for effective chub fishing
The chub is an opportunistic fish that feeds on everything within its reach. This characteristic makes them an accessible target with a variety of fishing techniques. To increase your chances of catching them, adapt your approach according to the season and weather conditions.
In summer, prefer sight fishing early in the morning or late in the day. Chub often stay close to the surface to hunt insects. Dry fly fishing is particularly effective during this period. Use grasshopper, cricket or wasp imitations to attract the attention of larger specimens. In autumn and spring, opt for natural baits such as earthworms or grubs.
Tackle fishing with a simple rig produces excellent results, especially in areas with moderate currents. Keep your line taut to detect the slightest touch.
Here is a list of the most effective baits for each season:
- Spring: earthworms, maggots, fresh bread
- Summer: grasshoppers, cherries, blackberries, artificial flies
- Autumn: sweet corn, cheese, mealworms
- Winter: boilies, trout paste, bloodworms
The right equipment plays a crucial role in your fishing success. An average rod of about 3.90 metres offers a good compromise between sensitivity and power. Choose a strong line, as chub tend to run towards obstacles after biting.
- To fly fish for chub, a 9-foot rod, 5-6 dry flies and streamers will suffice.
- For toc fishing, a 3.90 m rod with 16/100 line and worms or natural larvae as bait.
- For lure fishing, a 2.10 m spinning rod and a few small swimmers and spoons.
A discreet approach is a decisive factor in catching chub. These fish have excellent eyesight and easily detect movement on the bank. Move forward slowly, staying low if possible, and avoid casting your shadow on the water. Always cast upstream of the fish so that your bait drifts naturally towards it.
For novice anglers, the areas under the trees and near the weed beds are excellent spots. Here, chub take shelter and watch for insects falling into the water. Fishing for cherries or wild berries in summer is a fun and effective way to introduce the youngest anglers to this exciting sport.
