Largemouth Bass Numbers at O.H. Ivie Reach Highest Levels Since 2020

SAN ANGELO, TX — Largemouth Bass populations at O.H. Ivie Reservoir are the strongest they have been in five years, according to new sampling results released by the Inland Fisheries San Angelo District of Texas Parks & Wildlife.

Biologists sampled bass and forage species at the lake last week and reported that overall bass numbers were the highest recorded since 2020. The agency attributed the increase largely to improved recruitment following several significant water rises in recent years and the current abundance of aquatic vegetation.

Gizzard Shad and Bluegill — the lake’s primary forage species — “looked great,” according to the report. Most Bluegill measured between 3 and 6 inches, and surveyors observed more small- to medium-sized Gizzard Shad than usual, indicating a strong food base for bass growth.

Officials also reported that bass were in better-than-normal condition due to the ideal availability and size of forage species. Some fish between 13 and 15 inches were retained for age analysis. Early findings show Largemouth Bass in O.H. Ivie are reaching 14 inches in approximately 1.6 years, which biologists described as excellent for West Texas waters.

Charts released by the district show year-to-year comparisons for 2023, 2024, and 2025, including catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE), relative weight data, and proportional size distribution indices.

TPWD officials noted that the combination of strong forage populations, rising water conditions, and healthy vegetation is contributing to improved bass growth and survival heading into next year.