I have been fishing in a body of water with plenty of Bowfin.  Whenever I use a sucker (4.5 to 5" long), the fish go crazy over it.  They fight for it, tearing it to shreds, until one of the fish gets it in it's mouth.  The water is relatively shallow, so I can see the fish taking the bait.  Whenever I set the hook, the fish starts shaking it's head and the bait comes flying back at me.  I have failed to hook up with any Bowfin multiple times.  The hook I am using is about an inch long (red) octopus hook.  What am I doing wrong!

Give them plenty of them of time. I've waited as much as 30-40 seconds before setting the hook. Also try gently pulling it away from them. They will grab on tighter and make a run. Then set the hook.

Thanks!