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Top 5 Lures for Catching Chub off the Surface
Fishing for chub on the surface can be one of the most exciting experiences for anglers. These powerful fish, often found in rivers and streams across the UK, are known for their cautious nature and explosive takes. Catching chub off the surface requires the right lures, technique, and a good understanding of their behaviour and patience. Here, we explore the top 5 types of lures that have proven effective for surface fishing for chub.
1. Bread Imitations
Description: Bread has long been a favourite bait for chub anglers, and bread imitation lures have become increasingly popular. These lures mimic the appearance of a piece of bread floating on the water, a common sight that chub find irresistible.
Why It Works: Chub are opportunistic feeders and are often seen taking bread pieces thrown by people feeding ducks. A well-presented bread imitation can entice even the wariest chub to strike.
Top Picks:
- Enterprise Tackle Imitation Bread: This soft, buoyant bread imitation is a favourite among chub anglers. It can be fished on the surface or just below, depending on how it’s rigged.
2. Crankbaits
Description: Small, floating crankbaits that mimic the movements of insects or small fish are highly effective for surface fishing. These lures come in various sizes and colours, with the smaller, more natural colours being preferred for chub.
Why It Works: The erratic, darting action of crankbaits on the surface or suspended imitates struggling prey, triggering the chub’s predatory instincts. The rattling sound can also attract chub from a distance.
Top Picks:
- Daiwa Prorex Micro Minnow: Known for its wobbling action, this lure is effective in various conditions.
- Salmo Rattling Hornet: A crankbait that mimics the natural prey of chub, perfect for clear water conditions.
3. Floating Insect Imitations
Description: Floating insect lures are designed to mimic the appearance and movement of insects on the water surface. These can include beetles, grasshoppers, and other terrestrial insects that often fall into the water.
Why It Works: During warm months, chub often feed on insects that land on the water surface. A realistic insect imitation can be incredibly effective, especially in calm water conditions.
Top Picks:
- Heddon Tiny Torpedo: Its propeller tail creates surface disturbance, mimicking a struggling insect.
- Savage Gear 3D Cicada: This ultra-realistic lure looks like a real cicada, making it irresistible to surface-feeding chub.
4. Floating Minnows
Description: Floating minnows are another effective lure for surface fishing. These lures mimic small fish swimming near the surface and can be worked with a variety of retrieves to entice chub.
Why It Works: Chub are predatory and will strike at small fish. Floating minnows can be worked with a stop-and-go retrieve to mimic the behaviour of an injured fish, triggering a predatory response.
Top Picks:
- Yo-Zuri Pins Minnow: This lure is known for its lifelike appearance and tight wiggling action.
- Rapala Skitter Pop: A popper-style lure that creates surface disturbance, attracting chub from a distance.
5. Surface Frogs
Description: While more commonly associated with bass fishing, small surface frogs can be effective for catching chub in certain conditions. These lures are designed to mimic frogs or toads swimming on the surface.
Why It Works: In environments where frogs are part of the natural diet, chub will readily strike at a surface frog lure. The realistic movement and appearance can draw aggressive strikes.
Top Picks:
- Koppers Live Target Hollow Body Frog: This highly realistic frog lure has a lifelike action that can trigger explosive strikes.
- FFS Lures Micro frog 2.0: A smaller frog lure that works well in weedy or lily-covered waters where chub might be lurking.
Tips for Surface Fishing for Chub
- Stealth and Patience: Chub are cautious fish, easily spooked by noise and movement. Approach fishing spots quietly and avoid sudden movements.
- Natural Presentation: Ensure your lure mimics the natural prey in the area. Pay attention to colour, size, and action.
- Timing: Early morning and late evening are prime times for surface fishing as chub are more active during these periods.
- Light Tackle: Use light rods and lines to enhance sensitivity and improve lure action. This also helps in making a stealthy approach.
- Observing Behavior: Watch for signs of chub activity such as rising fish or feeding splashes. Casting to these areas increases your chances of success.
Conclusion
Fishing for chub off the surface is an exciting and rewarding challenge. By choosing the right lures and employing effective techniques, lure anglers can experience some excellent fishing. The lures highlighted here—bread imitations, crankbaits, floating insect imitations, floating minnows, and surface frogs—are among the best for enticing these wary fish. Experiment with different lures and techniques to find what works best in your local waters, and enjoy the adventure of surface fishing for chub.
