I came from Florida too, the Space Coast. Moved here in 1998 to Hendersonville to be close to Old Hickory. My first shock was no lilly pads, cat tails or bull rushes. However I can assure you not all of the bass leave the shallow areas in the winter. Fish close to any shallow cover you can find, wood and rock in particular. Go to spinning tackle and try some Charlie Brewer Slider baits -
http://sliderfishing.com/
4" & 5" worms and the 6" ring worm, paddle tail swim and the wide gap hook jig heads. Rig with braid and a flouro leader for best feel of what the bait is doing. Do not discount a square bill crankbait banged off any form of cover, including docks.