I use flukes and senkos as search baits n ponds here in FL.I fish them with no weight.I use a 3/0 wide angle hook .I start with watermelon seed on cloudy days,and watermelon red on sunny days.There are THOUSANDS of ponds you can fish . Cold fronts slow the fish but just slow down the presentation n those conditions.
Ponds need to be " read " to eliminate unproductive waters This is not an exact science,but here are some tips that may help.
1.I usually don't fish ponds at industrial sights .They will normally not be stocked.Not saying they don't hold fish,but it is usually much slower .I will fish them if they have some attractive vegetation, have been there a long time,or on a tip.
2.Some of the best ponds are residential.Many of these will be stocked.I don't ever fish in people's yards,but look for common areas in the neighborhood.I follow whatever signs are posted, I.e no trespassing , no parking,etc.Like I said,there are PLENTY of other spots.
3.Look for area parks.Many of these have a pond or two on them.
4.In the ponds look for drains and outlets.They are often the best spots.
5.If you see kids feeding ducks, fish those areas.Bream and minnows come for the bread,and bass will be in the area!!.I fish nearby until they leave,then close in.Cuaght a 7 pounder doing that.
6.Use Google maps for the area you plan to fish.You can't imagine all the hidden ponds you'll find.
7.Colleges often have fishable ponds.Many of these hold good fish.
8. Golf course ponds often are great,but are usually the hardest to access.
Make sure to report on your results!
Mike