It may be just me, but my rule of thumb is if it's spawning time, I'm usually throwing a lizard or creature, pre-spawn, early spring is more productive for craws, and I typically will throw a tube on rocky banks and points, usually pickin up smallmouth. Worms work about anytime from spawning on, and have luck just about anywhere with them, whether working them off drops or in mud-bottom cuts. That's just my general preference, but compensate for whatever the bass are likin better. lol. Hope this helps a little.