As hard as it might be, especially when you get the rush after seeing an explosion you have to start winding not swinging. The straight faster wind works but is hard to do. If you fish a stiff rod you will pull the bait pretty easily. That is why the pros fish soft tips on cranks. Also having fish blow up on the baits without hookin em is part of swim bait fishin, ask anyone who throws em consistently. Don't get down on yourself, just try the fast grind with a long sweep and good luck: