WikiCatch
Rio Grande chub
Gila pandora
Overview
The Rio Grande chub is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Leuciscidae, which includes the daces, chubs, Eurasian minnows and related species. This fish is endemic to the United States. It inhabits the upper Rio Grande and Pecos River systems in Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. The Rio Grande chub is native to most of its current range including all three of the states it can be found in. There are non-native populations that currently inhabit Coyote Creek, the Mora River, the Sapello River and other areas in New Mexico. There are currently no studies showing how the Rio Grande chub is impacting waterways in its non-native range. It has also been proposed that this fish is native to the Canadian River in New Mexico but this has not been proven. It is possible it was introduced there. Natural hybridization can occur between the Rio Grande chub and the longnose dace.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Earthworms
A universally effective and readily available bait.
- Mealworms
Good alternative when earthworms are unavailable.
- Grasshoppers
Effective during warmer months and near grassy banks.
- Crickets
Use small crickets on a small hook.
- Waxworms
Good for cooler water temperatures.
Artificial Lures
- Mepps Aglia #0SpinnerBuy
Small size is key for Rio Grande chub.
- Blue Fox Vibrax Minnow Spin #1SpinnerBuy
Flashy and attractive in clear water.
- Rapala Original Floater 05CrankbaitBuy
Mimics small baitfish, retrieve slowly.
- Panther Martin Spinner - 1/16 ozSpinnerBuy
Small, but mighty for attracting fish.
- Mepo's Tiny LureSpoonBuy
Small spoon is perfect for the chub.
Techniques
Fish near undercut banks or submerged structure where Rio Grande chub often seek shelter and food; use a slow, steady retrieve with spinners or crankbaits.
As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.
Where to Find Rio Grande chub
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Rio Grande chub?+
Popular baits for Rio Grande chub include Earthworms, Mealworms, Grasshoppers, Crickets, Waxworms. Tip: Fish near undercut banks or submerged structure where Rio Grande chub often seek shelter and food; use a slow, steady retrieve with spinners or crankbaits.
Where can I catch Rio Grande chub?+
Rio Grande chub can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include New Mexico, United States; Colorado, United States. WikiCatch lists 12 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Rio Grande chub get?+
Rio Grande chub (Gila pandora) can reach up to 18.000000699999998 cm in length and 0.25 kg in weight.
Get WikiCatch on iPhone
360,000+ fishing spots, AI fish ID, weather & solunar — free.
Download on the App Store