Before the automated search programs (such as LINEAR), comet hunters
concentrated their searches in the dark sky nearest the sun -- just
after the end of evening twilight and just before morning twilight.
Odds were somewhat better in the morning sky.

After the advent of the automated search programs . . . I'm less
knowledgeable; but IIRC Don Machholz has mentioned that he checks for
the areas not yet covered by the automated searches and makes those
areas a priority. (In the realm of comet hunting it's always been
advisable to know your competition.)

By the way, there are many more graphs and other information relating
to comet discovery in Liller's book. Despite the HUGE effects the
automated programs now have on comet hunting and discovery, I think
you would find Liller's book useful.

Who knows, one of these cold, dark nights I may return to my own old,
moldy, comet-hunting program.

OTOH, when I make sketches during an observing session I tend to
return indoors with something to show for my time under the stars ;-)

Sketcher
To sketch is to see.

What a fantastic response. Thank You.

tM