A few patrols back I was in nasty weather, heavy rain, fog, rough seas and it was night so Vis wise I couldn't see my hand in front of my face.Next thing I know there's a merchant 200m in front of me.
After an hour I hit her, the problem was I was using mags instead of Impacts
I think it depends more on the ship type rather than the crew:
Tribals are always hardcore,
But Hunt Is are always useless,

Although the crew play a big part as well.
(This is based more on personal Exp. rather than modding skills)
Plus how much of your ship is Visible.
After a bit of practice you'll know when they've spotted you, by the way they maneuver and how they're acting.
Now, go get some stealth kills