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How to Rig for Chub

Squalius cephalus

Chub are bold, greedy river fish that hide under overhanging trees, undercut banks, and snags, and will eat almost anything from bread to slugs to small fish. They are also very wary, so keep low and quiet and fish right beside the cover. They keep feeding in cold weather, which makes them a great winter target when other species switch off.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Float Rig
Best bait
Maggot, caster, or bread flake trotted under overhanging trees
Where
river
Typical size
12–24 in
Season
Peak season: fall, winter
Realistic Float Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Float Rig

intermediateriver

A float suspends bait at a fixed depth instead of dragging it on the bottom, letting current or light wave action carry it naturally past holding fish. This is the standard technique for salmon and steelhead in rivers, fished with roe or beads under a pencil float, and for light-tackle pier species like jacksmelt, where a small float and a multi-hook leader with tiny bait covers a school as it drifts through. Use it whenever fish are holding off bottom rather than on it, or when you want a natural drift through a current seam without snagging.

  • Main line8-15 lb monofilament running through the float
  • Leader15-25 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length18-24in from the float to the hook, shorten in clear water, lengthen in off-color water
  • Hooks#14 - #8 hook
  • WeightBulk shot under a stick float or Avon for trotting
  • Line to sinkerShot placed 8-12in above the hook, or spaced 2in apart in a cluster halfway down the leader for salmon
  • BaitMaggot, caster, or bread flake trotted under overhanging trees
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Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
Fish-Finder Rig
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance.
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Main lineCage feederon running linkBead, swivelHook length12-36inSmall hook
Feeder Rig
A small open-ended or cage feeder on a running link carries a load of groundbait or maggots out to the swim and empties on the bottom, while a longer, lighter hook length lets the bait fall naturally in that feed.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗GOV.UK / local fisheries authorities ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Chub?

The Float Rig is the top recommendation for Chub. A float suspends bait at a fixed depth instead of dragging it on the bottom, letting current or light wave action carry it naturally past holding fish. This is the standard technique for salmon and steelhead in rivers, fished with roe or beads under a pencil float, and for light-tackle pier species like jacksmelt, where a small float and a multi-hook leader with tiny bait covers a school as it drifts through. Use it whenever fish are holding off bottom rather than on it, or when you want a natural drift through a current seam without snagging.

What bait works for Chub?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Chub.

When is the best time to catch Chub?

Peak season: fall, winter. Typical size runs 12–24 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Chub?

Chub is caught while river fishing. Chub are bold, greedy river fish that hide under overhanging trees, undercut banks, and snags, and will eat almost anything from bread to slugs to small fish. They are also very wary, so keep low and quiet and fish right beside the cover. They keep feeding in cold weather, which makes them a great winter target when other species switch off.