Chub

Chub are typically found in rivers, although they have been introduced to a number of canals, where they also thrive.

Chub are often seen in large shoals near the surface of rivers, streams and canals.

Chub facts

Scientific name	Leuciscus cephalus
Family	Cyprinidae (Carp)
Diet	Caddis and mayfly and their larvae, small fish and fish eggs, worms and molluscs
Predators	Pike and fish-eating birds
Size	40cm
Weight	4-5lb
British record	9lb 5oz (4.224kg)
Lifespan	14-20 years

Chub and our canals

Chub are often found in large shoals at the river surface and are found in some canals.

They have a very varied diet, with their large mouths able to feed on worms, crayfish, flying insects, small fish, berries and other plant matter. With such food sources, they can grow quickly, often reaching an impressive size.

How to identify a chub

These fish are dusky silver in colour, often with a brown-bronze sheen. Chub are quite distinctive with a blunt snout, rounded body and very large mouth.

Small chub can often be confused with dace, which are smaller and more slender with duller fins. Chub also tend to have a wider mouth shape and curved dorsal and pelvic fins with a reddish tinge.

Lifecycle of a chub

Chub spawn in spring and summer, when water temperatures reach 14°C. Females will mate with several males, spawning multiple times and distributing her eggs in the water's gravel and vegetation.

Where to find chub

Chub are common in many Midlands canals – notably the Staffordshire & Worcestershire and Shropshire Union Canals.

How to catch a chub

The Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal and Shropshire Union Canal are both known for large catches of chub.

Carl Nicholls, fisheries & angling manager

Chub are known to seek cover on the far side of the canal. They’re particularly drawn to overhanging brambles and tree roots, which provide perfect hiding places.

To attract chub, try using chopped-up worms or casters, and for the hook, a large worm or a piece of bread works a treat. Chub are opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything, including frogs, and some anglers have even caught them on slugs. Small spinners and lures can also be effective in tempting these keen feeders.