Preheat oven to 475.
Line baking sheet(s) with parchment, spray with non stick oil as well.
Add sugar to water. Heat water to 110-115 degrees (use thermometer).
Sprinkle yeast on top of sugar water. Allow 5-10 minutes to activate (become frothy).
Add the yeast and sugar water to bowl of stand mixer.
Add butter and salt and 1 cup of flour.
Using dough hook attachment, mix gradually on low speed, then add the 2 more remaining cups of flour, one cup at a time.
Increase mixer speed to medium high and allow hook to knead the dough until it is soft and pliable, slightly tacky, approximately 5 minutes. The dough will sweep the sides of the bowl mostly clean.
Remove dough hook and allow dough ball to rest, covered in the bowl, about 15 minutes.
While dough is resting, prepare the water bath. Bring 2 cups of water and 4 tablespoons baking soda to a simmer, allow baking soda to dissolve. When dissolved, pour into 9x9 or similar baking dish. Allow to cool to lukewarm. Set aside.
Take dough out of bowl, and using a pizza cutter, cut in half, then in half again, until 8 equal sections have been cut.
Roll pieces of dough into 18"-20" pieces, form into pretzel shape.
Place each pretzel in soda water bath for 2 minutes. I do this is batches of 3 or 4. Place on baking sheet. Sprinkle with desired amount of salt (or other herbs).
Bake at 475 for about 8 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately brush with melted butter.