What is the first thing you look for to locate fish when you hit the bay or lake?

I look for current entering the bays or lakes from the marsh. It also helps to know the area like shell reefs good banks etc. I do not follow birds they noisy and occasionally [censored] on ya

The first thing I look for is if the lake has any artificial fish attractors. The second thing I try to do is look for structure. Even if its not explicitly marked on the map, you can look at contours to figure out the humps and holes.

I typically look for current lines around points and drop-offs. I also chase the birds to see if there is any surface action going on.