Two tips I learned from a professional SMB guide in SEMO:
1) When bottom-dragging for SMB, the first tap is often for stunning prey. Pause on the first, swing hard on the second.
2) Gear up -- use a higher gear ratio reel when fishing for SMB in relatively shallow water. When they race toward the deep water (and towards the boat), if you don't crank fast enough to keep up with them the slack in the line will allow them to throw the hook. I use a 6.3:1 but 7:1 may be better.
I’ll see if I can determine my reel ratio. If I remember right they were pretty high speed. All the hits I had were taken right at the edge of the water.
Edit. I was going to fish this morning, but the water is a little warmer. Don’t want to stress the fish, or make the SMB any more hook shy. So, no fishing for now.
