Because the trout do not seem to be caught on the leadhead hook have you thought about not using a leadhead, threading the leader through the entire swimbait body with a bait threader needle, and using a sliding cone sinker butting against the front of the swimbait. This may only work if your speed is slow enough because, if not, maybe the force of the water would push the bait into a curled position against the hook. (I am only thinking "out loud"; maybe this method makes no sense.) Speaking of speed, do you know if you were able to keep your speed to about 1.5 mph, which, if I recall correctly, is about right for trout (considering that speed should also be adjusted for optimal action of the lure). A given speed can be at the upper limit for getting bites but beyond optimal for avoiding frequent breaking off. Speaking of breaking off, I think that 4# leaders are too light considering that there are 4+ # trout now being caught and that there are likely holdovers larger than that. I use 6# 100% fluorocarbon leader for trout trolling, and maybe even 6+ is ok with fluorocarbon. Regarding getting to the right depth, some trigonometry can be of use. If I recall correctly this is the approximate relationship between line angle to the water, length of line out (LL), and depth of lure (D). Angle 15 deg., D= .2LL; angle 30 deg., D=.5LL; angle 45 deg., D=.7LL. For example, with an angle to the water of 30 deg. to reach fish that are about 10 feet deep you let out about 50 feet of line (.2 x 50 = 10). It is great to see the photo of your son, who seems to be growing very fast. It reminds me of the first trout caught by my two sons, a great way to hook a child on fishing. Sorry for rambling.



Bob