For me spring and fall is the time I try and locate them on a spinnerbait and then I'll disect the area with something slower like a jig, tube or t-rig.
In the Summer, I like to cast a spook type lure as far as I can and walk it fairly quickly until I get a strike. Once I get a bite, I make a mental note as to where the strike happened and I'll follow up with a slower bait to just beyond the area the strike happened. This follow up gives me an idea of a few tings: Water depth they are relating to, cover/structure and if the area is shaded or in sun light. It make not sound like a ton of information, but it's a start to the puzzle for me.
A-Jay, I may have to steal a page out of your playbook this year. With your permission of course...LOL