Shaugh, as of late it's not been that difficult to find Shad until this week when they were a little deeper. BTW, I use a 6' also. I just go to a protected cove, usually right near the ramp. You have to be very quiet! I have a Motorguide Xi5 trolling motor that I replaced the 2 blade with a 3 blade prop. When I see them flicker, I try to get to about 30' from them as fast as I can then turn the trolling motor almost all the way off and wait for some more ripples, then attack. The Bigger ones are almost always holding on the edges of grass and around docks and you only get 2 or 3 at a time. It's best if the current is flowing into the cove and there's not much wind. I try not to look in places that are more than 4' deep. Be Quite & use your Eyes and Ears. Go on a calm day to boost your confidence