Targeting Creek Chubs

By Seth

Pound by pound, chub are just as good fighters as trout. They might quite well, too. They are much hardier than trout, and are able to be taken on a variety of gear. They can be found in very small bodies of water, and plenty of the local waters. They aren't demanding to fish either - you can go to Walmart and get a good setup for them for less than $25. They take many baits, and are enjoyable to fish. On the left is typical creek chub water.
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Rod and reel- A short ultralight rod would do very well.  Since chubs are found in streams and small rivers, such as the Middle Patuxent, a rod around 4'6"-5'6" would be great to not hang up on trees and shrubs. An ultralight rod allows you to enjoy the fight, rather than just reel the fish in. Plus, it's lighter, and more sensitive. A small ultralight spinning reel would be great. 

​Lures - Micro sized jigs, and small soft plastics, such as curly tailed grub, attract the larger chub, which put on a strong fight. They sometimes take small spoons and spinners in the summer, when they are more aggressive. In the colder months, such as fall and spring, using a small presentation, such as floating a jig under a bobber, or spin fishing with flies, is a surefire way to catch chub and sometimes small brown trout. 

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Above: Student David Elsaesser displays the creek chub he has caught. It was recorded and measured for data, then released.  

Line: Good quality monofilament line, 4lb is a good measure, will do. Smaller the pound test, the further an ultralight fishing combo can cast lures. Plus, it's harder to see.

Live bait: Nightcrawlers are a hit with creek chub, and work well for chub of all sizes. Small crayfish on a hook can catch huge chub, and grasshoppers will too.

Terminal tackle: Since you are fishing small waterways, casting distance isn't that important, and just a small bomber, some good hooks, some small spot shot, is all that's needed. In the summer, make sure to wear bug spray. A Hoo Rag, which is a facial covering, works great for fishing in forested areas: It prevents sunburn and bugs from landing on your neck, and protects your face in the cold. 

Above: Members of the Clarksville Fisheries Sciences, mark off the sizes of fish caught that morning, their species, other information.  Chub fishing is fun, and it's a great way to pass time with friends.

Chub fishing is cheap and fun. It's a good way to get started in fishing, and appreciating our local waterways. In Clarksville, the numerous trails into the woods lead to streams that are full of creek chub.  Remember: only leave your footprints. Don't litter, or deface our natural resources. 

Above: Creek chub come in a variety of sizes, and are caught on many different baits. 

Creek Chub are really undervalued. They fight as well as trout, take many baits, but the large ones are just as elusive as a 25" brown trout. They survive water that trout cannot tolerate, live in the tiniest of the trickles,  and are a great thrill to catch. As our trout fisheries are declining from pollution, chub provide a great alternative.

-Seth