Drop Shot 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.
The drop shot suspends a soft plastic bait above the bottom on a fixed line, keeping it in the strike zone longer than any other rig. Originally a West Coast technique, it now dominates clear-water and finesse situations nationwide. Works vertically over structure or on a long cast.
Drop Shot Setup for O.H. Ivie Reservoir
| Rod | 7' medium-light to medium spinning rod, fast action |
| Reel | 2500–3000 size spinning reel, 6.2:1 or higher |
| Line | 6–8 lb fluorocarbon main line or 10 lb braid + 8 lb fluoro leader |
| Weight | 1/8–3/8 oz tungsten drop shot weight (heavier in current or deep water) |
| Hook | #1 or #2 Gamakatsu Finesse Wide Gap, 6–18 inches above weight |
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.
Drop Shot: Target staging fish on points and drop-offs in 8–20 feet. Nose-hook a 6" Roboworm or Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flat Worm.
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.
Drop Shot: Go deep — 20–40 feet on main lake structure. Shake in place with minimal movement. Shad colors dominate.
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.
Drop Shot: Follow baitfish to secondary points and pockets. Faster retrieve works as fish get more aggressive.
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.
Drop Shot: Slowest presentation of the year. Dead-stick a 4" finesse worm at the bottom. Let it sit 10–15 seconds between shakes.
Best Conditions
Clear to stained water, pressured fish, cold fronts, post-spawn suspended bass, deep structure in summer
Use a Palomar knot and leave the tag end pointing up to keep the hook riding correctly. Most anglers tie it wrong.
More Techniques for O.H. Ivie Reservoir
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