Answer:
Colors are a very interesting part of the picture, but hard to truly call. You have the right idea by trying to match the forage, as this can often work. In gin clear water though, fish are just tougher to trigger, in general. Try gaudy colors too–even on dark days. Try different sizes. Possibly, standing out is what you want … so if you are working shad, bigger, gaudier baits could work. But, experiment with size and color. Also, one very effective way to get around the gin-clear woes is to either fish at night (especially if lake receives heavy fishing pressure) or work the wind. Fish on windy days and get right in it. Fish tend to be more “triggerable” in waves on clear lakes.