I don't think the bait issue is that important, you put a piece of meat or a jig in there face, they are more likely then not to bite it. Getting it in there face is the important part and finding proper structure is the key, pinnacles and ledges are where they live, which is pretty obvious info, the important part though is knowing how to read a fish finder to locate the fish once you find the proper structure, learn how to use your bottom lock and bottom zoom and you'll catch more fish. With fish ID off (which it should always be) fish are going to show up as spikes coming right off the bottom, I don't usually drop gear till I see the screen full of big spikes, don't waste time on small spikes as they probably aren't what you want.
1 other tip, don't fish where everybody else does, though there are few "secret" spots left in Puget Sound try to find your own spots and once you do, keep them to yourself.