The secret to circle hooks is to not set the the hook in the manner you do a J-hook or Kahle hook. Gamakatsu Octopus Circles are deadly on a baitcaster. Don't reel until the catfish loads the rod, at that point it's "fish on." I could help you more if you stated what size and type of catfish you would be targeting. For the smaller eatin-size channels I use about a 4/0, but when I'm targeting trophy flatheads I can go up to a 8/0. Just reel when you hear that baitclicker get ta singin!
By the way, circle hooks are where it's at for C&R catfishing. I've never had a hook-up anywhere but the corner of the mouth.(This doesn't include the hook-up with the webbing of my fingers...YOW!)
Last edited by Gibbzilla; 03-16-2007 at 07:43 PM.
If you've got fishin' fever, I've got the fishin' PLAGUE!