I use artificial baits 100% of the time when fishing for Bass.
With that said I also believe that it is crazy to dismiss live bait as an option for catching them, ESPECIALLY when confronted with cold water or winter conditions.
I will agree that it may take more skill and or ability to catch Bass on artificial baits. That is why I choose them. I consider it a bit more sporting during warm water or "prime" fishing conditions.
If I'm not mistaken the thread was about "tricks for cold water"..... I think it would be unrealistic to not consider live bait in extreme conditions. (keep in mind that I live well above the Mason Dixon Line)
Sometimes "you gotta do what ya gotta do"!!