When the wind or current is up and you’re spending more time trying to control your boat than you are fishing, you might want to think about using a drift sock. They are offered in a number of sizes for different boat sizes. These are available at BassPro Shops, Cabella’s, and other tackle stores.

A smaller sock will slow your boat down less than a big one but it’ll be lighter and easier to use. If you just want to get started, try a 3-foot model. That’s about right for a modern bass boat and they are super easy to handle. Do not pull your trolling motor up just because your using a drift sock. It will help you control your boat during your drift and fish more efficiently. Make sure you keep your GPS on when you’re drifting. If you catch a couple of fish, you can use the electronics to make another drift over the same area. If your drift was unproductive, you can make sure you don’t repeat it. Attach a big float to your sock. If it gets loose, it’ll sink fast and forever. Using a drift sock is one of the best ways there is to cover a lot of water, and covering water is sometimes the only way to catch fish.

The diagram on the right shows orientation of the drift sock relative to wind direction.  As to the direction of actual fishing, I cast with the wind (opposite of diagram).  It has the advantage of casting farther as well with the boat moving over the area not spooking fish.  This could be a key difference in shallower areas.

Drift socks on Chippewa Lake, Clear Lake, Jehnsen, and Lake Mecosta have been extremely effective. Check out this video for more information.