We did ok on browns this year, my findings for browns is always a stealthy program. If I am targeting only browns, my program was, pull in the dipseys and fish only riggers and lead core/copper. I try to keep my rigger balls w/ in 10 feet of the bottom and often closer. I do this from Taughannock up through rocky dock. I always remove the shark weights and go w/ the cheapest balls and bounce them on occasion (not on purpose). I have taken most of my browns on spoons run clean, the occasional stick bait on core or copper. Browns definetely pile up on structure. This past summer I experimented w/ mini divers of the riggers and the SWR which improved hook ups.
The problem w/ this program is your constantly checking your lines being that close to bottom and your diver has to know the shoreline and PAY ATTENTION. A good gps helps, we use way points for fish but also bottom contours that don't show up well on our gps. My hot color on browns this year was green , pink and orange spoons w/ glow backs. I had most success w/ smaller spoons 2.5 inches. That my 2 cents hope it helps.
I'm pulling out of the water this weekend for the season, I will be trailering the 15 footer around now in between time in the tree stand. If anybody is looking to jump on a boat for some cool weather fishing give me a call, my fiance is out till spring till I put the big boat back in. I'd be willing to chip in for gas on anothers boat - even trailer it for you. Just trying to keep lines in the water.
John AKA Mower