As a fishing tackle company based in Changsha, due to the subtropical hot climate, we rarely have the opportunity to catch salmonidae fishes. In the Xiang River, the most common and interesting fish to catch is the barbel chub, also known as 'Chi Yan Zun' or 'red-eyed trout'. Despite the name, they are not trout; in fact, they are closely related to grass carp. It's common to see barbel chub and grass carp coexisting in the same schools. While grass carp primarily feed on plants, barbel chub are opportunistic predators known to eat a variety of things, from aquatic insects to shrimp and even other fish they find edible. They are both predators and prey, being a favorite target for yellow cheek carp, which makes them very cautious. If there is excessive movement or casting, they will flee from a long distance.
Barbel chub can grow up to 80cm in length and weigh up to 9 pounds, although they typically range from 20-35cm and 1-3 pounds. Fishing for barbel chub presents its challenges, somewhat resembling bonefish fishing in freshwater. The subtle disturbance of the fly line hitting the water can startle them, so it's essential to use a longer tapered leader and tippet, and control the movement upon landing. Most flies used for trout can be effective for barbel chub, including dry flies, wet flies, nymphs, and streamers. In Changsha, they often feed near the bottom of shallow waters along the riverbanks, making nymphs a popular choice for catching them.
We typically use a 5wt rod for barbel chub fishing, although rods ranging from 3wt to 8wt can also be used. When hooked, barbel chub vigorously struggle and often leap out of the water initially, then dart quickly towards deeper waters.Their strength is greater than that of most trout of a similar size. Additionally, the presence of many reed roots in shallow areas necessitates using a tapered leader and tippet of 4X or higher strength.
Walking through the murky waters in search of barbel chub is a truly captivating pursuit. The ripples marking their whereabouts are distinct from other areas. Occasionally, you catch sight of a barbel chub fin breaking the surface. You carefully cast your line, the fly gently settling before the fish. A subtle twitch of the fly catches its attention. With a sudden burst, the fish lunges forward and takes the bait. "Fish on!" you exclaim as it leaps into the air, a spirited struggle ensues. It darts towards deeper waters, the line racing through your fingers, the reel singing in response. What an incredible fish, what an exhilarating battle! After a few intense minutes, the fish begins to tire. With precision, you scoop it into the net. The sight of its golden head, silver body, and orange fins fills you with immense joy as it rests in your landing net.
