Fall shad push brings active bass to creek channels

What anglers are reporting The last solid reports from Ivie were back in the summer, so we are flying on seasonal patterns and current conditions this week. With air temperatures holding steady in the 70s during the day and 50s at night, expect water temperatures to be sitting in the low to mid 60s.

This week's outlook November on Ivie means the fall transition is in full swing. Shad should be pushing back into the creek arms of the Concho and Colorado rivers, and the bass will follow. The recent rain and steady, mild weather will keep fish active and feeding up before the true winter cold sets in. Look for the bite to be aggressive, especially during low light or when the wind picks up.

Where to start Focus your search on secondary points and creek channels leading into the major arms. Idle with side-scan to find isolated standing timber near channel swings where bass can ambush passing shad. If you find bait pushed up onto the mud flats or near any remaining pondweed beds, work those areas thoroughly.

Bait box

• White and chartreuse spinnerbait (willow blades for clear water)
• Squarebill crankbait (shad patterns)
• Topwater walking bait (early morning or overcast conditions)
• Jerkbait (for suspended fish near timber)
• Texas-rigged creature bait (pitching to isolated wood)

This weekend Saturday looks warm and breezy with highs in the mid 70s and a south wind around 17 mph. That wind will push bait against windblown points and timber, making moving baits highly effective. Sunday brings a slight cool down and a chance of rain, which could extend the low-light feeding window. Cover water and follow the bait.