For what it’s worth, I always “check” many of the channels where I know there is some good structure including subtle depth changes. I have far more misses than hits in the last 25 years on that lake when there is ice. But, I have had plenty of unreal days in channels with no one around and when a quality fish couldn’t be bought in a community spot. I never get disappointed when they are not there, I kind of expect it. When they are it’s well worth it. Also, I have found them on one day and they are gone the next, many, many times. My best crappie day on IL ever with 4 15 inchers (c&r) and balance 12+ came from a channel I had never caught a crappie from my boat. I could not catch a small fish that day. Likely it will never happen again, but I will always remember it. Right place right time. Good luck.