Same here. Either shiners or bluegills. I use a 2,3 or 4# circle hook. Run the tip through inside of his mouth and out the nostril. This way the bait is able to open its mouth and gulp water to get oxygen. When you go through the bottom lip out the nostril they can't breath as good. Also there is less resistance on the hook when hook setting,
I'll either free spool or use a small balloon. The less weight/stress placed on the bait makes them last longer.
I use them this way in all types of cover.