Crankbait (Shallow) Fishing on O.H. Ivie Reservoir
O.H. Ivie Reservoir · Texas · South Central
O.H. Ivie Reservoir spans 19,000 acres in Concho County and is known for its clear water, rocky points, and deep creek channels that create ideal bass habitat. The lake's unique geology features numerous submerged rock formations and ledges that hold trophy-sized largemouth and smallmouth bass year-round. This scenic Hill Country impoundment is a favorite among serious anglers seeking quality bass fishing with minimal crowds.
Square-bill and shallow-diving crankbaits (0–6 feet) deflect off wood and rock, triggering reaction strikes. The erratic wobble on contact is the strike trigger. Best fished fast around hard cover — laydowns, stumps, rip-rap, and dock pilings where bass are ambushing.
Crankbait (Shallow) Setup for O.H. Ivie Reservoir
| Rod | 7'–7'6" medium casting rod, moderate action (critical — absorbs hooksets and keeps fish pinned) |
| Reel | 5.4:1–6.4:1 baitcaster (slower retrieve for more action) |
| Line | 12–17 lb fluorocarbon (sinks lure slightly, adds action) |
| Weight | Square bill 3/8–1/2 oz; shallow diver 1/4–3/8 oz |
Seasonal Tactics on O.H. Ivie Reservoir
Lake: Spring brings excellent topwater action as spawning bass move shallow along the rocky banks and in protected coves. Jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics around shallow structure produce quality fish as water temperatures warm.
Crankbait (Shallow): Pre-spawn best season. Deflect off stumps and wood in 2–6 feet. Crawfish colors (red/orange) dominate.
Lake: Summer bass retreat to deeper water and structure, with early morning and late evening topwater bites providing the most excitement. Deep-water vertical jigging and finesse techniques around the main lake ledges and creek channels yield consistent results.
Crankbait (Shallow): Early morning and evening only in shallow. Fish shaded wood. Shad colors midday.
Lake: Fall transitions create aggressive feeding periods as bass chase baitfish in the shallows and mid-depth zones. Crankbaits, swimbaits, and lipless cranks work well around points and channel breaks as fish prepare for winter.
Crankbait (Shallow): Cover water along banks and points fast. Shad patterns — white, ghost, and natural baitfish colors.
Lake: Winter fishing slows considerably, but quality fish can still be found in deeper areas and near the dam structure. Slow-moving presentations like jigging spoons and drop-shot rigs around deep ledges produce the most consistent winter action.
Crankbait (Shallow): Switch to suspending crankbait with slower retrieve. Minnow-style baits outperform wide wobble in cold water.
Best Conditions
Stained water, wood and rock cover, spring pre-spawn, windy days, post-spawn, fall feeding
Use a moderate-action rod, not fast. A fast rod causes you to rip the bait away from fish on the strike — the rod needs to load and bend.
More Techniques for O.H. Ivie Reservoir
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