What is likely to be the main food source for BG in 8-15ft of water in a murky bayou?

[Craig DuShane]

I can't imagine many worms, crickets, grubs, or flies make it out into deep water...so does that just leave minnows? I think crayfish are more of a rocky bottom bait than decaying organic murky bottom right? Leeches are probably more toward the shore (if at all in 38 degree water) right?

If they are biting, it probably doesn't matter too much what you use. If they are being picky though, would minnows be the least suspicious bait? What have you guys found the most success with? I know Dick Tabbert likes 1/2 crawlers...anyone else have a go to for deeper water suspended gills? Would they bite on the same things they bite on when ice fishing? If so, what bait is used for ice fishing?

I could just stick to fishing just before dark and warm days until May/June, but I really want to 1. go after the bigger BG, and 2. be able to catch them when no one else even bothers.