ET- As I learned on this very thread, you are correct. Boatside hits you set the hook towards the tail. Had one come out from under the boat last year, and to my surprise, I actually remembered to do just that and was rewarded with a nice 39"er. Problem is...it goes against your logic toward hook setting, but when you think about it, it truly makes sense. Thanks to Ty's remarks, I got one in the boat. I've also had Musky hit the lure more than once on a retrieve, on several occasions. And I usually cast downwind, in the direction of my float...the guide's I've been with had me do it that way. (Also helps to keep the backlashes down in my case!) Best fishes to you...that's a nice fish you got there!