I fished the stained water that had about 2-3 feet visability, that seemed to work best for us. I didnt try any clear water, but they could be there too, i just went for the dirtier water cause it was warmer, figgured it might help the bite a bit. We did end up getting quite a few of our bites around the cistern which is now totally out of water. Bites all came while working up hill just to let you know.