Colored water warms before clear water. Look for active fish in shallow areas on the north end of big pits early in the year. As the season continues, shift to deeper or clearer waters. I carry a thermometer to quickly assess water temperatures to aid in the decision-making process. Cold fronts make fishing tough.
Fish often hold tight to cover and their strike zone decreases.
Try to use vertical presentations with subtle baits on these fish. I use a plastic worm, lizard or jig and pig. Fall is the time to break out your largest spinnerbaits. Big bass lurk around weedbeds and dropoffs to ambush larger prey items in preparation for the inactivity of the winter months. A plastic trailer helps to increase the profile of the spinnerbait.