Similar to fallfish, male creek chubs build nests in gravel. Females then deposit eggs and the males cover them. After several females have spawned in succession in one nest, the nests can reach several feet long. Interestingly, female creek chubs will often float belly up after spawning, as if dead. They quickly recover, however, and swim off to spawn several more times.
Creek chub readily take baited hooks and are often caught by children.
While they can be eaten, these fish are generally released. Anglers often use creek chubs for bait. Golden Shiner One of the most widespread fish in New York State, golden shiners are found in waters across the State. They are one of the most popular bait fish and have been raised by people for the bait industry for years. Although generally a lake species, golden shiners live just about any place the water is quiet, weedy, clean, and somewhat shallow.