I agree with both Tony and Yanni...
Whatever method works for you.
A ff is really going to help you find bait but you can always cozy up to someone who's catching macks. I've never seen anyone get pissed and I don't see the harm in asking someone to tell you if there is bait around. When you start making bait keep more than you will use (explained later)
The friendliness seems to dwindle a little bit when your actually going for the game fish tho.
Don't get to close but stay near where you think some guys are marking fish. Most guys won't mind especially if you introduce yourself. Ask if their on BWE. Make conversation. Ask if they need a few macks and give them a couple (refer to catching bait).
After owning a ff I'd personally never fish without one.
Once your dialed in you can see the fish.... Sometimes. It is not a guarantee that they will bite tho.
Don't skimp on a unit. Do your homework and buy a quality model.
Good luck.
