Now that you have your gear, when do you start to fish? When the water temp starts to creep into the upper 50s its time to start checking. In Mississippi we start wade fishing around March 15. This date could vary year to year.
What do you look for? This question really depends on the lake. However, most lakes have some creeks or ditches. These are good places to start. The fish will run up the ditches and creeks and out to the flats. I like like to fish in 2-3 foot of water around blow downs, cypress trees, willows, or iron wood bushes.
It is important remember that slow and steady wins the race. I am guilty of fishing too quickly. When you start to catch fish in an area its important to SLOW down and fish very thoroughly. This is especially important because there might be a few fish holding on that structure. Even if you can not see the structure, often times fish away from the tree. There will be fallen limbs, and roots that are holding fish.