[goinsfishin]

Best theory I've ever heard is that during the fish's initial struggle to get away they get a "cramp" in their side from overexertion.
I've also noticed that a lot of spinners are hooked funny.....one in the mouth, the stinger wrapped outside and hooked in a gill plate or exterior jaw.....so you're pulling them thru the water sideways.

The best thing I've found to do is horse it to the surface and crank as hard as you can to get it on "plane".....then just "ski" it in.