Deadfalls, fish cribs, boulders, stumps or anything else that provides a hiding place for bait should be checked. Water temperature also can offer clues as to the whereabouts of forage. Early in the season, when the main body of a lake or reservoir is still cold, savvy anglers will look at the mouths of feeder streams or head up tributaries, where the water is warmer. They'll also check out shallow, dark-bottomed bays, which warm faster than the main lake. On a warm and sunny spring day, check out shallow rock piles.
Rocks absorb the sun's rays and give off heat like a radiator.
That heat often kicks the food chain into high gear. Water temperature also can be a factor after the passage of a cold front. If you have a temperature gauge on your boat or depth-finder, pay attention to changes as you move around the lake. Think about forage. Look for telltale signs that could offer clues as to the whereabouts of prey.