Maruto sickle hooks are superb in quality and design.  Ideally suited for catfish baits.  Whether using live or cut bait, you cannot go wrong with this hook.  We recommend an egg loop tie for line protection at he eye as well as having a loop for securing baits.  One good example I found is: Fishing Knots: Egg Loop Knot - How to Tie an Egg Loop Knot - YouTube.  Not only is this knot one of the best, but it also gives great leader protection for hook eye loop edges that may be sharp and can abrade the leader.