Chubby Chernobyl
The Chubby Chernobyl is one of the most versatile and reliable dry flies ever designed for western rivers. Built with a high-floating foam body, rubber legs, and a highly visible wing post, it excels as both a terrestrial imitation and a large attractor pattern. Whether you’re imitating stoneflies, hoppers, or just searching for aggressive fish, the Chubby gets attention.
On rivers like the Deschutes River, it’s a go-to during the salmonfly and golden stone hatches, but it’s just as effective all summer long as a hopper or searching dry. Its buoyancy also makes it an ideal dry-dropper platform, capable of suspending heavy nymphs.
| Key Features |
|---|
| High-floating foam body |
| Rubber legs |
| Visible wing post |
| Effective as terrestrial imitation |
| Works well during stonefly and hopper hatches |
| Useful as dry-dropper platform |
FAQ
What types of insects does the Chubby Chernobyl imitate?
The Chubby Chernobyl imitates stoneflies, hoppers, and other terrestrial insects commonly found in western rivers.
Is the Chubby Chernobyl suitable for use during summer?
Yes, it is effective all summer long as a hopper or when searching for aggressive fish.
Can the Chubby Chernobyl be used as a dry-dropper?
Yes, its buoyancy makes it an ideal dry-dropper platform, capable of suspending heavy nymphs.




Charles Fisher –
I’ve used the Chubby Chernobyl on the Deschutes during both hatches and dry periods. It floats well and draws fish in even when the water is moving. The foam body stays upright and the wing post is very visible. Great for both dry flies and as a dry-dropper setup.
Joan Nash –
This fly works well in the summer when I’m targeting trout. It’s durable and floats consistently. I’ve used it during stonefly hatches and it’s been effective. A reliable pattern for both dry and nymph presentations.
Joe Wallace –
The Chubby Chernobyl stands out in the water and catches fish that otherwise ignore other patterns. I use it as a dry fly and as a platform for heavy nymphs. It’s one of my go-to flies for western rivers.