Chub

Chub is a powerful river fish with a broad head and muscular body. Dark back with orange lower fins. Reaches weights of 8 kg.

Omnivorous with predatory tendencies: insects, crayfish, fry, frogs, berries (cherries, mulberries), and even mice. Diet shifts seasonally — more insects in summer, more fry in autumn.

Most active at 12–26 °C. Feeds throughout the warm season. Best bites come in warm overcast weather. Active during the day, especially when wind blows insects into the water.

Holds on current beneath overhanging trees, near bridges, snags, and riffles. Faces upstream, waiting for food to drift down. Extremely wary — spots anglers from a distance.

Caught on grasshoppers, cherries, May bugs, fry, small crankbaits, and spinners. Spinning, float, and fly fishing all work well. Stealth and quiet bait delivery are crucial.

For trophy chub (3+ kg), fish under overhanging trees on larger rivers. Small crankbaits (3–5 cm) are highly effective. Cast upstream and retrieve with the current.