Yeah.. I think it's probably the rod -- it's pretty stiff. I need to switch to something more like a long crankbait rod. I've been thinking about using my calstar 186L 8'fiberglass saltwater rod but I can't use my calcutta on it cuz it has no reel seat.

The funny thing is that I havent really lost too many calicos on the same set up... and I fish the same way as I do with large mouth bass. Basically I just reel harder and faster when I hook up. I hardly ever swing to set the hook or anything like that... then again I'm a newbie when it comes to fishing swimbaits for large mouth bass. Appreciate the reply Phil!