I usually tie my hoppers with heavier hooks (when I used to tie Chernobyls, they always landed on their backs so I thought a nymph/streamer hook would help), and after a few casts the hair wings and heads absorb a bit of water; whether that makes any difference is problematic. I catch fish on fresh flies and ones that have been on for a while; how you cast and where you cast is more important. I have absolutely no problem making my hoppers hit the water with a real good splat; now if you want something delicate, I'm at a loss.

Regards,
Scott