Just depends so much on the water temps. If reasonably warm, I've caught plenty in the pad stems. If colder than normal, they may be in deep water - just look for a large grouping of boats offshore and join them (at a respectable distance). No electronics needed for either of those. If they are in transisition, which is probably normal that time of year, then you'll need to do some searching. I've always rented a boat when visiting reelfoot and was always able to get good advice on where to start from the person renting me the boat. Good luck - it is a beautiful place.