Fishing from shore I would use a float for all presentations. I think the float that are about 2" long with a 1/16 jig of choice is a good combo. For extra casting distance, add shot til the float says to quit. When crappie strike, a lot of the time the float will only bounce once. That is the thump you would feel on the rod generated by them flaring the gills and sucking in the jig. The thump comes from the jig hitting the back of their throat. Bottom line--- if the float does anything you didn't tell it to, set the hook from the wrist. The Berkley Powerbait maggots and small stuff like that is said to be tough and do a good job also. Just another option in addition to those already stated. Also, fishing near some brush with maybe some weeds might help too. Be prepared to donate some terminal tackle.
Creativity is just intelligence fooling around