If interested, watch this YouTube video. Since starting to only use a reel set when I need to set the hook, I really don't lose fish once they strike. I don't know if anyone doesn't know how to do this but it was new to me earlier this year and it has helps me a lot. Hope at least one person finds this informative.

FYI, I didn't make the video. It's from James Smiley

Very well explained. Something I've been trying to get some friends to do for awhile now. It takes "faith" to believe in it though!

A reel set does not work in all situations, it also does not require a light wire hook as mentioned in the video. When done right it generates almost twice the pounds per square inch that a normal hook set does.

I do the oposite. I use a reel set with big thick hooks and I set the hook with the rod when I use light hooks.For me a reel set works best when I have alot of line out and a rod set works best close.

I agree Mattlures, the reel set combined with a rod sweep works when you have made a long cast over 25 yards. The difference being the rod position; try to keep the rod tip low and towards the lure.

I first described this technique back in '95 In-Fisherman article Horizontal Jigging.

Tom