A lot of fishing techniques and finding fish can be learned. Much easier with today's electronics, mapping, and social media. But just like any other sport/activity there are those with an innate sense about finding fish, sticking to or abandoning a plan, etc. that I do not believe can be learned or taught. Some folks just have it and I believe a lot has to do with experience, time on the water, history on a given lake, etc. combined with the way their brain processes information. The best teacher, bar none, is time on the water. Second is having a network of good fishermen that you actually fish with, learn from, and discuss various techniques, theories, etc. Don't ever be afraid to experiment. Many times I have been on a solid pattern (not in a derby) and I'll change baits to see what I can catch them on in addition to the primary bait. Or I'll change locations/structure/type of bank/depth and see if they will bite my primary bait. Paying attention to patterns within a pattern are key as well. Fishing water willow you need to know are they on the outside edge, one opening inside of buried up further in. Is the willow on flat banks, steep banks, points, pockets, back ends, etc. Sometimes the type of water willow big bladed leaves or thin leaves can be a difference maker. Usually the thin leafed version is far more productive. More than once I have found fish on boat docks that are related to the ladders and no where else. Have you ever been pitching a jig and noticed that you get hit while retrieving your jig for another cast? Maybe they want a swimming jig over a normal jig retrieve? Maybe a chatterbait would be better? So many variables to process. Usually it is better to go spot to spot than pull long stretches of bank or fishing entire coves. The more variables one can isolate the better.