Species · Fly · Squalius cephalus

Chub (on Fly)

Chub are the perfect summer fly rod species. Found under overhanging trees and in shady swims on rivers, they take dry flies and terrestrials with spectacular surface rises. Stealthy stalking is essential.

Chub (on Fly)
Chub (on Fly)

Where and when

Detail
Habitat Rivers, streams, overhanging tree-lined stretches
Best time Afternoon/Evening
Category Wild

Baits and tactics

  • Tactics: Dry fly, Terrestrials, Nymph
  • Baits and flies: Terrestrials, Dry Flies, Nymphs

Tackle that suits

Detail
Hooks 10-16. Standard dry fly hooks. Wide gape dry fly hooks for terrestrial patterns
Mainline WF5-6. Weight Forward floating. Floating line for surface presentations
Hooklength 4-6lb tippet. 9ft. Copolymer leader with fluorocarbon tippet
Shotting No weight needed. Dry flies and unweighted nymphs are the standard.
Field notes Stealth is absolutely critical - chub spook at the first sign of an angler; Approach from downstream and keep low, using bankside cover; Big bushy dry flies and terrestrials (beetles, crane flies) are deadly; Summer evenings when beetles and moths are falling onto the water are prime; A single, accurate cast is worth more than ten sloppy ones; Polarised glasses are essential for spotting fish holding under branches

More fly species

Free tier, no card. Pro is £14.99 a year after a 7-day trial.