Look for a crease - that is crucial . And if you have an overhanging bush , even better. Use the minimum amount of lead, but don't be afraid of using a half ounce bomb , for example , if that is needed to hold bottom . I'd avoid very shallow water in cold weather - on my river I am fishing , typically , 4 - 10 foot deep for chub.
Does your river have a good population of chub ? If so, stick at it - if not , find somewhere that does . Aim to fish the afternoon into dusk , don't get too hung up on bait choice (cheesepaste/crust/worms are all you usually need ) , or rigs (simple leger with a shortish hook length ) but do keep moving . Walk your river and get to know the spots that look right , then aim to fish a selection of swims on your session. As a rule of thumb , if you don't get a bite within 30-40 minutes , move downstream . Get a long extending landing net pole, which will enable you safely to fish off high banks - I use a 3m pole. And fish where the river looks right - that means being prepared to fish in areas that are not recognised swims.
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