I posted this in the jig tying section, but thought I'd put it on the main forum for anyone who may be interested.

I ordered some of the Lil Nasties sickle hooks by Eagle Claw simply because it seems I have to try anything new. Be aware that although they appear to be good quality hooks, they don't come close to Matzou in terms of sharpness. About the same as regular Eagle Claw hooks....good quality, but lacking the extreme sharpness. I have no doubt they'll catch fish, but one of the big reasons I use the sickles is how sharp they come right out of the package.

I always keep a hook sharpener in my box

I like the smaller barb on the Matzuos, too.

Tony, Im not a hook expert by any means,but a few guys on the jig site have been playing with them for a couple months...Their feed back..

http://www.jigcraft.com/jigcraft/showthread.php?tid=8532