I've usually run my Hotshots further back behind the sideplane -- about 30-40 feet depending on river flow. The key to fishing it is to work it S L O W through all the holes across the river. I swear steelies hit the plug cuz they're fed up with the thing buzzing around their faces. Kinda like swatting at an annoying bee. Hook sets are just a little tougher with alot of line out but the fish generally oblige by taking off away, eliminating the slack for you. Exept when they don't, that is, and head TOWARDS the plane. Have fun!