Don't reckon there's probably any one or series of answers to that question that would satisfy everyone. After all, we're all uniquely different. In digging around the Internet, however, I found a few thoughts, which I've decided to share with everyone.
Weather. If bad weather is in the forecast, the No. 1 thing for anglers to keep in mind is to plan your strategy in advance. For example, if the weather dudes are calling for 47 degrees, heavy overcast, with rain and cold north winds on the way, the smart fella plans to fish an area that will help shield him from some of the winds.
Water Conditions. Water temperature is key to understanding fish patterns, so make sure you track the recent and current water temperatures to see if they might point you in the direction of more fish...like maybe water in the 60-degree-plus range. Bass can be found shallow on beds in that range, but if it's cooler than that, they often will back off the beds. (Check out the accompanying video for more discussion on this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaAywoW5XIs.)
Also look for areas where the surroundings may help maintain the water temperature, such as a railroad bridge or riprap. If you know the temperature was warmer earlier in the week, then fishing around these more protected areas will help keep the water in that area warmer, compared to other more open areas.
Gear. When you encounter tough fishing conditions, try and use search baits like crankbaits, jerkbaits, swimbaits, and spinnerbaits. This strategy will help you determine where the fish are located, and then you can start throwing an assortment of baits designed to establish a pattern.
It's important, especially when fishing with a partner, to make sure you are both throwing different baits to find that pattern. This helps eliminate baits quicker. Once you find a pattern, vary your presentation to see how the fish prefer the baits. Many anglers tend to lose focus when the bite dies down and will leave an area. Rather than just run around, though, look for key areas similar to the one where you caught fish.
Safety. Everyone likes to find a kicker fish. If that kicker, however, turns out to be your last fish of the day, and it appears bad weather is moving in, don't put yourself and maybe a partner in danger. If lightning and thunder are beginning to pop, get off the water. Your life is far more important than any kicker fish.
Preparation. Regardless if it's a body of water you've fished before, or if it's a new one, keep in mind external influences. Have a good idea of what weather to expect that day. Have a good assortment of different baits to throw (based on the weather conditions) until you can narrow them down and determine a pattern. Don't be afraid to try new baits or techniques. Learn to expand your knowledge base, which requires you to step out of your comfort zone.
Persistence. Don't get discouraged; learn to be patient. If you plan in advance, you'll be one step closer to finding the perfect bait selection for the day. Whether it's adding an extra pause in your retrieve, slowing down your cast, or trying a new bait, go for it. Give yourself a chance to build your confidence, step out of your comfort zone, and become a better fisherman.
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