First is there any bass in the river? If so have you looked for fallen trees, the other stuff you talked about sounds like good stuff for them. I can not speak about plastic worms as i do not use them.. But have you tried rapalas, daredevils, or any type of spinner or wobblers? Try casting a few of these out and see what happens. Also look for a little bit of current that flows by a pool of some sort.. Good Luck to you..