Both shallower flats and breaklines produce fish. Also, cranking right down the middle of the channel in deeper water can produce fish, but I’ve never brought my leadcore up there.
I run a lot of reef runners and other big lipped stick baits. As far as color, I can’t really say that I’d consider there to one magic color up there. Fishing the Red up North is different- yellows and pinks seem to consistently be the best. I haven’t really had luck with any particular color across trips. However, some days on color is on while the others are not- just gotta let the fish tell you.
One last thing- I’m no cranking master. I much prefer jig fishing- it’s my favorite method of fishing. However, I also like to catch fish and if jigs aren’t producing, I switch. Pay attention to all of the boats who giggle at you when you are pulling cranks. It’s humorous- they giggle and snicker, even when they’re getting outfished.
Good luck. You’ll probably see us up there- Green and light tan 17 foot Alumacraft with a 115 Yammy and a 10 Yammy kicker. Swing over and say howdy.

Hey guys. I’ve been going up to the Rainy for as long as I can remember (except the couple years they closed the spring season when I was really young.) I’ve found basically the same thing you guys have- jigs in the nooks and cranny’s is a good deal. One other thing I’ve had luck with then the fishing is tough is long-lining cranks. It can really be the ticket. I prefer wide wobble baits in the cold water temps. Give it a shot if the jigs aren’t producing.
Scoot