How fast are you trolling? Might consider a slight increas in speed.

How far is your drop back (distance from the release)? If you are running a flasher/spoon combo set your drop back no further than 15 feet- 10 to 12 is perfect. Solo... I would run no more than 20 feet.

Since we are on releases, what type are you using? Sometimes a change in release type will make a big difference. I change to the pad types this time of year- fish seem not to turn on a lure, rather chop and follow. With a pad/grip release, you might have a change to set the hook when the fish comes off the release.

What type of rod are you using? This can be a critical piece of the puzzle... Power in the butt section will add more hook ups. Also, are your rods set at a 45 degree angle aft?

Hooks? You'll get a hundred different answers, but the Herzog bend is important. My personal preference are Mustad. They have a slightly shorter gap yet longer bite. The points are long, strong and sharpen like nothing else! Additionally, run a 4/0 hook off a 4.0 spoon.

Here's a picture of what folks are talking about:


A barrel swivel helps to decrease the leverage fish will place on a spoon. Also you'll find deeper (in the mouth) hook sets on fish.

Hooks super sticky sharp?

Long story short... there are a myriad of things that can be causing these types of take downs. What I think you are experiencing is nothing more than the fish not turning on the lure- common for returning fish. They tend to munch down and follow the same path.