I usually start with a technique that can cover a lot of water and find the concentrations of willing fishes. Then, I narrow down my technique to which one best suits the location, depth of fish, and density of the schools. Spider rigging and/or pulling cranks or longlining is where I start. When a suitable number of bites occur, I hone down the manner of presentation. Casting to them or scoping with a long rod is the final approach. All of this supposes that you are on a lake where you are not experienced as to the best spots or techniques that have worked before.
Hope this helps.