Bass as in other fish are found around Structure, lumps, bums, channel edges, clam beds.
Depends on where you are fishing and what time of year. This will determine what the bass are feeding on, etc.
Best bet is to study your charts, read your fish finder as you are going, don't be afraid to ask locals. While noone will give you "the spot" they will help you on generalities and what the fish are feeding on.
Don't rely on birds, fil the boat with no birds in sight at all