The way fish to fish a plastic depends on many variables like the condition of the current, water temp, environment (bay harbor, structure, kelp, hard bottom, ect) the area in the water column the fish are feeding, the type of fish you are targeting.

As mentioned Calicos like to eat the plastic on the fall. Sandbass and halibut towards the bottom ussually on a slow retrieve or drifting towards the bottom in the current. I've notice that sea bass like the faster steady retrieve by letting sink towards the bottom and then winding it through the upper part of the water column.

Another good method that I have found works well is to slow troll a swimbait. Another method I've had success with is just to hold a swim in faster moving current.

You need to adjust the size of the lead heat to match these variables. Different sizes will produce in different conditions. The goal is to keep the bait in the strike zone.

As for hooking fish I wind fish on when I'm fishing the bait on a fast retrieve. I swing on fish that eat the plastic on the fall If I miss I drop it back instantly and hold the line with my thumb. If I miss a second time I drop back and put the reel in gear do slow wind to see one will jump on it. I wind them on that point if nothing happens I kick the back out of gear and continue the drop. I swing on fish when I'm fishing shallow water.

You have to find what works for you and don't be afraid to try different colors and sizes. Of course we all have our old favorites that seem very consistant but you can get stuck in a rut and miss out on finding some baits that might work really well under the right conditions.

Good luck,

jerryG