Jesse, you can crimp a splitshot above your lead to act as a stop for the weight. Right above it will be an immediate 'bolt', or 1 to 2 feet above it (as Scott mentioned) will give the effect of setting the hook as the fish is moving with the bait when the lead reaches the 'stop'.
I hope that makes sense!
_________________________
Brian - multi-species angler
There are no trash fish, just trash attitude!
2010 catches:
Sunfish: Bluegill-1, Longear-3, Green-1, LM Bass-1
SM Buffalo: 1
Carp: Common-6, Grass-3