ok we set our tips some on bottom and others about 1" off bottom. so they foat around. the pike will take them both ways. when the flag goes up go over to the tip up and if the "T" is spinning sit and wiat for it to stop then pull the tip up out of the water (if your fishing with 2 people give your friend the tip up to hold so when you start pulling line he walks backwards so you lines doesnt get tangled) ok so slowy pull up on the line and feel if there is weight. if thiers weight give it a few seconds to munch down on the bait. then set the hook. and start pulling him up. if the fish wants to run let him. there usaly easy to get up of the hole.