Setting the hook

I have developed a reluctance to solid hook sets that I am not sure how to remedy. As a child I had a tendency to overzealously rip on the rod often causing the bait and hook to come right out of the water and fly over my head behind me. I also learned the disadvantages of setting a hook on a submerged tree. As an adult this has turned into an overcautious hook setting style where I slowly add pressure to the line as if I were trying to be sure that a fish is on the other end and not a clump of weeds. By the time I feel the fish's head shake it's too late to drive the hook in. What you would think would be the most natural part of fishing has become a handicap. Just this weekend I missed a few solid bass on a topwater frog for this very reason. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Also, I don't believe there are any videos on this topic.

Thank you