How to Fish Ohio River: Best Patterns & Techniques

Ohio River

Published: Nov 1, 2018

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Ohio River

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	48-58	Transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, becoming more active as water temperatures rise above 48°F Actively feeding around current breaks and eddies near rock structure, showing increased aggression above 58°F	Rock bars and humps with adjacent current breaks Bridge pilings in 8-20 foot depth range Current eddies at the downstream end of rock structures	Bladed Jigs worked with the current speed Football Jigs worked around rock structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around bridge pilings	Shad concentrating around current breaks Crawfish emerging from winter patterns around rock structure	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	48-58	Pre-spawn smallmouth are transitioning from winter depths to staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are following current seams and focusing on rocky structure as water temperatures begin to rise Feeding activity increases during warmer parts of the day, with fish moving shallower as temperatures rise	Rocky points and bars adjacent to deeper wintering areas Current seams near rip rap and rock structure Secondary points with mixed rock and gravel in 8-15 foot depth range	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom contours Tubes dragged and hopped on rocky structure Jerkbaits worked with long pauses in current seams	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Shad schools in current areas Small baitfish relating to rock structure	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	53-65	Spotted bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging, moving from deeper winter haunts to pre-spawn staging areas near spawning flats Fish are becoming increasingly active and aggressive, feeding heavily to prepare for the spawning period Most active during warming trends, particularly in afternoons when water temperatures peak	Current-influenced transition areas near spawning flats, especially where rip rap is present Secondary points and channel swings with laydowns or dock structure Shallow rock and gravel areas adjacent to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked along rip rap and current seams Shakey Heads worked methodically around laydowns and dock posts Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along channel swings and points Bladed Jigs around shallow cover during warming trends	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms Small baitfish in current seams and around structure	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	56-65	Striped bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are following large schools of shad, becoming increasingly aggressive as water temperatures rise Movement patterns show fish relating to current seams and transitional structure between deep winter areas and spawning grounds	Main river channel edges and current seams where pre-spawn staging occurs Sandbar points off islands that create current breaks and feeding stations Secondary points and creek mouths leading to eventual spawning areas	Umbrella Rigs worked through bait schools and along channel edges Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in areas where fish are holding near structure	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Various minnow species following similar seasonal patterns	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleye are staging near spawning areas, making their way from deeper winter haunts to shallower spawning locations Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, with increased activity during low-light periods Movement patterns focus on transition areas between deep wintering areas and shallow spawning zones	River channel edges and associated ledges where deep water meets potential spawning flats Current seams and eddies near tributary mouths or channel bends Rocky points and riprap areas that warm quickly and provide spawning habitat	Blade Baits worked vertically along channel edges and current breaks Live Bait Rigs with minnows presented slowly along transition areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked parallel to staging areas	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water near channel edges Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	58-68	Catfish becoming increasingly active as water temperatures rise, moving from winter deep holes to shallower feeding areas Following pre-spawn feeding patterns, actively seeking food around current breaks and structure Transitioning between deeper wintering areas and spawning locations, using river channels as migration routes	Current seams near river channel edges in 8-15 foot depths Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water Protected backwater areas warming faster than main lake	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or whole shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible structure in warming backwaters	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active Small sunfish in warming backwater areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-70	Bass moving shallow into spawning areas, alternating between pre-spawn feeding and spawning behavior Fish showing preference for cover near spawning flats, particularly laydowns as evidenced in recent reports Actively feeding during warming trends, with increased activity noted in 62-68°F range	Laydowns in shallow water, especially those near spawning flats Protected backwater areas with stable temperatures Secondary points leading into spawning coves	Shakey Heads worked slowly through cover Wacky Rigs with deliberate presentations Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover	Shad, as specifically mentioned in recent reports Crawfish becoming active in warming waters	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	55-65	Smallmouth bass are transitioning to spawning areas, staging on adjacent rocky flats and points before moving to nesting sites Males are becoming territorial and aggressive, actively patrolling potential spawning areas and defending against intruders	Rocky flats and points in 4-8 feet of water adjacent to spawning areas Protected rocky bays with gravel or small rock bottom Current-swept rocky areas near river channel transitions	Tubes worked slowly along rocky areas, mimicking crawfish Ned Rigs deadsticked on transition areas between spawning flats and deeper water Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to spawning flats	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small shad schools in pre-spawn patterns	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass are transitioning to spawning areas, staging in pre-spawn locations near spawning flats. Males are actively preparing and guarding nests in protected areas, while females move between deeper staging areas and shallow spawning zones Feeding activity is aggressive but intermittent, with fish particularly active during warmer periods of the day	Protected shallow pockets with hard bottom near deeper water, especially around laydowns and docks Secondary points and rip rap areas adjacent to spawning flats Current-influenced areas near spawning zones, particularly in river channels	Shakey Heads worked slowly around spawning areas and staging points Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting laydowns and dock posts Soft Jerkbaits worked with sporadic retrieves in staging areas	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas Small baitfish gathering in warming shallow waters Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	58-68	Striped bass are moving into shallow spawning areas near river channels and current seams, staging in pre-spawn locations before moving to actual spawning grounds Fish are actively feeding in preparation for spawning, with increased aggression and willingness to chase bait in the upper water column	Main river channel edges and current seams where spawning activity occurs Secondary points and sandbars adjacent to spawning areas Shallow flats with good water movement near deeper water access	Umbrella Rigs worked along channel edges to target actively feeding pre-spawn fish Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) slow-rolled through spawning areas Bladed Jigs worked parallel to current seams where fish are staging	Schooling shad congregating in spawning areas Various minnow species in shallow feeding zones	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye are making their spawning migration towards shallower rocky areas and river channel tributaries Fish are staging in pre-spawn areas near spawning grounds, actively feeding before the spawn Post-spawn fish will gradually move to deeper structure, following baitfish schools	Rocky points and gravel bars near river channel intersections Tributary mouths with current breaks Secondary points leading into spawning bays Shallow flats adjacent to deep water access	Blade Baits worked slowly along bottom transitions Live Bait Rigs with minnows near spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around staging areas Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for active fish	Shad schools gathering in spawning areas Small baitfish in tributary areas Juvenile crawfish becoming active in rocky areas	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-70	Catfish are transitioning to spawning areas, with increased activity and feeding as water temperatures rise. Males begin searching for and preparing nesting cavities near structure in protected areas. Pre-spawn feeding increases significantly, with fish actively pursuing shad and other forage in current seams and around structure	Protected backwater areas with hard bottom and structure (logs, brush piles) in 8-15 foot depth range Current seams near river channel edges where depth transitions from 15-20 feet Areas around bridge pilings and laydowns that provide both spawning cavity options and ambush points	Live Bait Rigs with cut or whole shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around spawning areas with heavy jigs Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) with large soft plastics around visible structure	Shad (primary forage base showing in multiple reports) Crawfish (becoming active in warming waters near structure)	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Post-spawn bass are transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are utilizing shallow to mid-depth zones, responding to current conditions and water clarity	Docks and marina areas providing stable cover and shade Submerged stumps in 3-8 foot depth range Current seams and eddies near river channel edges	Wacky Rigs worked slowly around cover Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') parallel to dock lines Bladed Jigs around current seams	Bluegill gathering around shallow cover Shad schools in upper water column Crawfish active around wood cover	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	58-72	Recently recovered from spawning, smallmouth bass are actively feeding to regain energy, primarily targeting crawfish and shad in rocky areas Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to slightly deeper water, establishing summer feeding patterns Most active during early morning and evening hours, utilizing current seams and eddies for ambush points	Rocky points and bars adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with current Rip rap banks with access to deeper water Current seams and eddies near river channel edges	Tubes worked slowly along rock transitions Ned Rigs dragged through current seams Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') parallel to rip rap	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy Small shad schools in current areas Young of year baitfish beginning to appear	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	68-76	Actively feeding in post-spawn recovery phase, focusing on high-percentage ambush points near shallow to mid-depth transitions Exhibiting aggressive surface feeding behavior with water temperatures in the low 70s, particularly around current-influenced areas	Rip Rap banks with access to deeper water Current seams and river channel edges Secondary points with hard cover near spawning pockets	Buzzbaits worked parallel to rip rap and current seams Spinnerbaits worked along transition areas Soft Jerkbaits worked erratically in shallow zones	Shad congregating near surface in warming waters Small baitfish relating to rip rap and current breaks	Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	65-75	Post-spawn striped bass are actively feeding to recover energy, targeting baitfish around current-oriented structure and points Fish are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to deeper summer haunts, making frequent feeding moves to sandbar points and current seams	Sandbar points off islands where current meets structure River channel edges adjacent to shallow flats Current seams near main lake points	Spinnerbaits slow rolled along depth transitions Soft Body Swimbaits (Large) worked through current seams Umbrella Rigs for actively feeding fish around bait schools	Minnows concentrated around points and current areas Shad schools moving along channel edges	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye transitioning from spawning areas to early summer feeding patterns, actively pursuing shad in current breaks and along structure Fish becoming more active during daylight hours as they recover from spawn, with peak feeding during dawn and dusk periods	River channel edges where spawning areas transition to deeper water Current seams and eddies near ledges in 15-25 foot depth range Secondary points with access to both shallow flats and deeper water	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges with steady speed Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in current breaks Blade Baits worked through suspended fish marked on electronics	Shad schools beginning to form in post-winter patterns Small baitfish relating to emerging vegetation Juvenile panfish in shallow warming bays	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	58-72	Post-spawn catfish actively feeding and recovering energy, concentrating around current seams and structure in medium depths Increasing feeding activity as water warms, with fish moving between deeper channels and structure-rich feeding zones	Pilings near river channel edges with current breaks Deep holes adjacent to shallow feeding flats Backwater areas with abundant structure in 8-20 foot range	Carolina Rigs with cut bait in current seams Live Bait Rigs with shad near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around pilings	Shad Bottom-dwelling prey fish Crawfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	62-75	Active feeding on shad in the upper water column, particularly during early morning and evening hours, with surface feeding activity common Relating heavily to cover (laydowns, brush piles, docks) during midday hours when sun is high Opportunistically feeding on both shad and crawfish, with location shifts based on time of day and water temperature	Laydowns and stumps in 0-12 foot depth range Docks with nearby deep water access Brush piles in intermediate depths Areas where bait balls are present, especially near current seams	Hard Topwater (Popping) during early morning and evening hours Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around wood cover during midday Hard Jerkbaits when targeting active fish around bait balls Ned Rigs when fish become finicky in tough conditions	Shad (primary forage, especially evident in bait balls) Crawfish (secondary forage, especially around wood cover)	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	68-82	Establishing summer patterns around man-made and natural structure, actively feeding on shad and crawfish during prime periods Utilizing current breaks and dock edges as ambush points, especially during sunny conditions Moving between shallow and deeper structure based on light conditions and temperature	Boat docks and marina areas with shade Current breaks and eddies near river channels Rocky structure adjacent to deeper water	Ned Rigs worked slowly around dock posts and shaded areas Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked through current seams Drop Shot along deeper dock edges and channel breaks	Shad schooling around dock areas and current breaks Crawfish active on rocky structure and rip rap Small sunfish around dock structures	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	72-82	Aggressive surface feeding patterns during early morning and evening, actively pursuing shad in the upper water column Moving between dock areas and nearby deeper water during midday heat Opportunistic feeding in current seams and around hard cover structure	Docks with access to deeper water, especially those with visible bait activity Current-influenced areas near river channels Riprap banks and laydowns adjacent to deeper water	Hard Topwater (Prop) worked aggressively around docks and surface activity Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) for imitating shad in slightly deeper water Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) for targeting fish holding tight to dock structure	Shad schools actively moving in upper water column Smaller baitfish utilizing dock areas for cover	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	68-78	Striped bass will be seeking deeper, cooler water during the heat of summer, primarily holding in 15-25 foot depths near the thermocline Fish actively feed during early morning and late evening, moving shallower to pursue bait schools School with other striped bass, following and corralling large bait balls in open water	Main river channel edges where current creates feeding opportunities Deep points adjacent to sandbar flats where bait schools gather Offshore structure near deep water that provides ambush points	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with umbrella rigs and deep diving crankbaits along channel edges Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') when fish are holding on structure Hard Topwater (Walking) during early morning and late evening feeding periods	Shad schools in open water and around structure Various minnow species relating to current areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Walleye	72-82	Walleye are active in warm water conditions, particularly during low light periods, with recent success reported at 10pm Fish are relating to current areas and river channels, likely positioning along edges to ambush prey	River channels with current breaks Deep ledges adjacent to shallow flats Current seams where baitfish concentrate	Bladed Jigs with swimbaits worked along channel edges Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') parallel to structure breaks Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) targeting suspended fish	Shad schools in main lake areas Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-78	Actively feeding in current seams and around structure, with peak activity during dawn/dusk and nighttime hours Moving between deeper main channel areas and medium-depth structure zones based on forage availability and current Showing aggressive feeding behavior near shad schools, especially in areas with current breaks	Current breaks near river channel edges in 15-20 foot depths Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water Submerged structure near tributary mouths where bait congregates	Live Bait Rigs with cut or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') in current seams Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible structure and laydowns	Shad schools concentrated in current breaks Bottom-dwelling baitfish in brush pile areas Crayfish around rocky structure and pilings	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors

Fall Fishing Guide for Ohio River

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	65-75	Bass are actively feeding on crawfish and shad around woody cover, staying tight to structure as evidenced by recent fishing reports Fish are transitioning to shallower backwater areas, following baitfish and utilizing current breaks in river-reservoir system	Laydowns and fallen trees in backwater areas, particularly those near current seams Brush piles in 5-12 foot depth range Current breaks and eddies near woody structure	Structure Jigs - flip and pitch to visible wood cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) - for precise presentations around tight cover Spinnerbaits - worked around laydowns when shad are present	Crawfish - primary target in backwater areas and around wood cover Shad - consistent forage base throughout the reservoir system	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	66-74	Actively feeding on shad and crawfish around current seams and rocky structure, with increased activity during early morning periods Following baitfish schools while maintaining proximity to hard structure as water temperatures remain in optimal feeding range	Rip rap banks with current seams Rock bars in medium depth ranges Current-swept rocky structure near river channels	Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked parallel to rip rap banks Structure Jigs worked slowly through rocky areas Hard Jerkbaits retrieved with aggressive snap-pause cadence	Shad schooling near current seams Crawfish in rocky areas	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	62-72	Actively feeding on shad and minnows in the upper water column, especially around current-influenced areas and laydowns Exhibiting aggressive topwater feeding behavior, particularly around baitfish schools Moving between shallow cover and nearby deeper water as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day	Laydowns and woody cover in 0-9 foot depth range Current seams and river channel edges where baitfish congregate Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water where shad schools are present	Frogs/Toads skipped under laydowns Hard Topwater (Walking) worked over baitfish schools Hard Topwater (Popping) in areas with surface activity	Shad schooling in the upper water column Minnows around structure and current areas	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	58-72	Actively schooling and feeding on bait balls, following shad migrations to creek arms and bays Moving between deeper river channels and shallow flats based on bait movement and water temperature changes	Main river channel intersections with creek mouths where bait schools congregate Sand points and bars adjacent to deeper water Current seams near structure in 15-25 foot depth range	Umbrella Rigs worked through bait schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges Large Hair Jigs (Preacher) near surfacing activity	Schooling shad in large congregations Various minnow species	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Walleye	56-65	Walleye actively feeding on shad schools as they migrate to deeper water, following seasonal baitfish movements Fish transitioning between shallow feeding areas and deeper winter holding locations, often relating to river channel edges	River channel edges where current meets structure, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range Deep ledges adjacent to flats where shad schools are congregating Current seams near deep water access points	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') along channel edges and near schools of bait Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) worked along ledges and drop-offs Blade Baits worked vertically through bait schools	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration Secondary baitfish utilizing current breaks and structure	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Catfish	58-72	Catfish actively feeding to build reserves for winter, following shad schools and concentrating near current breaks and structure Moving between medium-depth structure (8-20 feet) and deeper channel areas as water temperatures cool	River channel edges with nearby structure (pilings, brush piles) in 15-25 foot range Current seams near deeper holes where shad congregate Backwater areas with wood structure during warmer fall days	Live Bait Rigs with cut or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) in channel edges and holes	Shad schools congregating in deeper water Bottom-dwelling forage near structure	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	52-58	Largemouth bass are holding tight to wood cover in winter, with recent reports confirming activity around laydowns Fish are showing a preference for slower-moving presentations, likely due to moderate winter water temperatures around 56°F	Laydowns and wood cover in protected areas, especially those with deeper water access Marina areas and dock structures that provide winter sanctuary Current-protected backwater areas with wood structure	Structure Jigs worked slowly around laydowns, as confirmed by recent success Football Jigs dragged along deeper transitions near wood cover Ned Rigs for a finesse approach during tough winter conditions	Crawfish, as evidenced by recent fishing success on crawdad-colored baits Shad, which are a consistent forage base in this reservoir	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	38-45	Smallmouth bass school tightly in deep winter locations near current seams and river channels, primarily feeding during warmer parts of the day Fish remain relatively stationary but will actively feed on concentrated baitfish schools when present	Deep river channel bends with rock structure in 18-24 foot range Current seams and eddies near deep rock bars Deep water adjacent to rip rap banks with current	Blade Baits worked vertically with slow lifts and drops Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') with controlled hops Drop Shot with subtle movements near bottom structure	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Dormant or slow-moving crawfish near rocky structure	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	48-55	Spotted bass are holding in tighter schools near current-influenced areas and deeper structure, making methodical feeding movements into shallower water during warming trends Fish are exhibiting a preference for slower-moving presentations in the 4-9 foot range, particularly during periods of stable weather	Current-influenced areas near river channels in the 4-9 foot range Hard cover structures (laydowns and riprap) adjacent to deeper water Protected dock areas with baitfish presence	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly through the water column Underspins paired with smaller profile baits around baitfish schools Blade Baits worked vertically in current seams	Shad concentrations in slightly deeper water Small baitfish schools near current seams	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	56-62	Striped bass form large winter schools following and feeding on shad schools in deeper water, particularly around river channels and current seams Fish become more lethargic during coldest periods but will actively feed during warming trends and stable weather patterns	Deep river channels with current seams where bait schools congregate Points and sandbars adjacent to deep water that provide ambush opportunities Brush piles and structure in 15-30 foot depth range near primary river channels	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits Umbrella Rigs	Schooling shad in deeper water Suspended baitfish around structure	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Walleye	52-58	Walleye are holding on deep structural elements, particularly ledges, following typical winter patterns and staying close to forage Fish are actively feeding on shad schools in deeper water, with most activity concentrated around steep depth changes	Deep ledges with nearby river channel access Deep rock structures adjacent to primary river channels Current breaks near deep winter holding areas	Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Blade Baits	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water Secondary baitfish relating to deep structure	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Catfish	53-58	Catfish move to deeper, more stable water temperatures in main river channels and deep holes, typically 15-24 feet Feeding activity becomes more concentrated during stable weather periods, with fish grouping in wintering holes Activity levels are reduced but fish will actively feed during warming trends	Deep river channel holes and bends with reduced current, especially near structure Deeper sections near pilings and brush piles in 15-24 foot range Current seams and eddies in deeper water where baitfish concentrate	Live Bait Rigs with cut shad or live bait positioned near bottom structure Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with heavy jigs tipped with cut bait Structure Jigs worked slowly through deeper holes and channel edges	Winter-stressed shad concentrated in deeper water Bottom-dwelling prey like crayfish and small fish seeking warmer water in deep holes Dead or dying baitfish that become easy targets in cold water	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors

Key Seasonal Structures in Ohio River

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Rock bars and humps with adjacent current breaks	Bridge pilings in 8-20 foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and bars adjacent to deeper wintering areas	Current seams near rip rap and rock structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Current-influenced transition areas near spawning flats, especially where rip rap is present	Secondary points and channel swings with laydowns or dock structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main river channel edges and current seams where pre-spawn staging occurs	Sandbar points off islands that create current breaks and feeding stations
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	River channel edges and associated ledges where deep water meets potential spawning flats	Current seams and eddies near tributary mouths or channel bends
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Current seams near river channel edges in 8-15 foot depths	Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns in shallow water, especially those near spawning flats	Protected backwater areas with stable temperatures
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky flats and points in 4-8 feet of water adjacent to spawning areas	Protected rocky bays with gravel or small rock bottom
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Protected shallow pockets with hard bottom near deeper water, especially around laydowns and docks	Secondary points and rip rap areas adjacent to spawning flats
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Main river channel edges and current seams where spawning activity occurs	Secondary points and sandbars adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and gravel bars near river channel intersections	Tributary mouths with current breaks
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Protected backwater areas with hard bottom and structure (logs, brush piles) in 8-15 foot depth range	Current seams near river channel edges where depth transitions from 15-20 feet
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Docks and marina areas providing stable cover and shade	Submerged stumps in 3-8 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Rocky points and bars adjacent to spawning flats, especially those with current	Rip rap banks with access to deeper water
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Rip Rap banks with access to deeper water	Current seams and river channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Sandbar points off islands where current meets structure	River channel edges adjacent to shallow flats
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	River channel edges where spawning areas transition to deeper water	Current seams and eddies near ledges in 15-25 foot depth range
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Pilings near river channel edges with current breaks	Deep holes adjacent to shallow feeding flats
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and stumps in 0-12 foot depth range	Docks with nearby deep water access
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Boat docks and marina areas with shade	Current breaks and eddies near river channels
Summer	Spotted Bass	Docks with access to deeper water, especially those with visible bait activity	Current-influenced areas near river channels
Summer	Striped Bass	Main river channel edges where current creates feeding opportunities	Deep points adjacent to sandbar flats where bait schools gather
Summer	Walleye	River channels with current breaks	Deep ledges adjacent to shallow flats
Summer	Catfish	Current breaks near river channel edges in 15-20 foot depths	Brush piles and laydowns adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and fallen trees in backwater areas, particularly those near current seams	Brush piles in 5-12 foot depth range
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Rip rap banks with current seams	Rock bars in medium depth ranges
Fall	Spotted Bass	Laydowns and woody cover in 0-9 foot depth range	Current seams and river channel edges where baitfish congregate
Fall	Striped Bass	Main river channel intersections with creek mouths where bait schools congregate	Sand points and bars adjacent to deeper water
Fall	Walleye	River channel edges where current meets structure, particularly in 15-25 foot depth range	Deep ledges adjacent to flats where shad schools are congregating
Fall	Catfish	River channel edges with nearby structure (pilings, brush piles) in 15-25 foot range	Current seams near deeper holes where shad congregate
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Laydowns and wood cover in protected areas, especially those with deeper water access	Marina areas and dock structures that provide winter sanctuary
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Deep river channel bends with rock structure in 18-24 foot range	Current seams and eddies near deep rock bars
Winter	Spotted Bass	Current-influenced areas near river channels in the 4-9 foot range	Hard cover structures (laydowns and riprap) adjacent to deeper water
Winter	Striped Bass	Deep river channels with current seams where bait schools congregate	Points and sandbars adjacent to deep water that provide ambush opportunities
Winter	Walleye	Deep ledges with nearby river channel access	Deep rock structures adjacent to primary river channels
Winter	Catfish	Deep river channel holes and bends with reduced current, especially near structure	Deeper sections near pilings and brush piles in 15-24 foot range

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad concentrating around current breaks	Crawfish emerging from winter patterns around rock structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Shad schools in current areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn staging areas	Crawfish becoming more active in rocky areas as water warms
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Various minnow species following similar seasonal patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water near channel edges	Small baitfish gathering in pre-spawn staging areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in pre-spawn areas	Bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish becoming more active
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shad, as specifically mentioned in recent reports	Crawfish becoming active in warming waters
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small shad schools in pre-spawn patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas	Small baitfish gathering in warming shallow waters
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Schooling shad congregating in spawning areas	Various minnow species in shallow feeding zones
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools gathering in spawning areas	Small baitfish in tributary areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shad (primary forage base showing in multiple reports)	Crawfish (becoming active in warming waters near structure)
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill gathering around shallow cover	Shad schools in upper water column
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Crawfish emerging from winter dormancy	Small shad schools in current areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad congregating near surface in warming waters	Small baitfish relating to rip rap and current breaks
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Minnows concentrated around points and current areas	Shad schools moving along channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools beginning to form in post-winter patterns	Small baitfish relating to emerging vegetation
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad	Bottom-dwelling prey fish
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad (primary forage, especially evident in bait balls)	Crawfish (secondary forage, especially around wood cover)
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schooling around dock areas and current breaks	Crawfish active on rocky structure and rip rap
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools actively moving in upper water column	Smaller baitfish utilizing dock areas for cover
Summer	Striped Bass	Shad schools in open water and around structure	Various minnow species relating to current areas
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools in main lake areas	Young-of-year baitfish in shallow areas
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated in current breaks	Bottom-dwelling baitfish in brush pile areas
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish - primary target in backwater areas and around wood cover	Shad - consistent forage base throughout the reservoir system
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schooling near current seams	Crawfish in rocky areas
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schooling in the upper water column	Minnows around structure and current areas
Fall	Striped Bass	Schooling shad in large congregations	Various minnow species
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools congregating in large numbers during fall migration	Secondary baitfish utilizing current breaks and structure
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools congregating in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling forage near structure
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish, as evidenced by recent fishing success on crawdad-colored baits	Shad, which are a consistent forage base in this reservoir
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Dormant or slow-moving crawfish near rocky structure
Winter	Spotted Bass	Shad concentrations in slightly deeper water	Small baitfish schools near current seams
Winter	Striped Bass	Schooling shad in deeper water	Suspended baitfish around structure
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	Secondary baitfish relating to deep structure
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed shad concentrated in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling prey like crayfish and small fish seeking warmer water in deep holes

Bait Colors by Season for Ohio River

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Craw Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Green Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Natural Shad Colors Chartreuse Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Craw Colors
Summer	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Spotted Bass	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Summer	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Walleye	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Metallic Colors
Summer	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	Natural Baitfish Colors Light Neutral Colors
Fall	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Natural Baitfish Colors Metallic Colors
Fall	Walleye	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Fall	Catfish	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Craw Colors Dark Neutrals Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Smallmouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Craw Colors
Winter	Spotted Bass	Light Neutral Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Striped Bass	Natural Shad Colors Metallic Colors Natural Baitfish Colors
Winter	Walleye	Metallic Colors Natural Shad Colors
Winter	Catfish	Dark Neutrals Chartreuse Colors Natural Shad Colors