is one type better than the other, and also is one used during a certian season or year round? (for catfish)

Circle hooks.

thanks though i have never used circle hooks i will give it a try.

make sure you dont set the hook.. when a fish bites reel as fast as you can with the rod still in the holder.. until the rod loads up.. and then pick up the rod

Don't jerk it, reel Tom reel!!!!

+1

After setting hooks for years.... sometimes I forget with circles But use them most of the time now anyway.

Some like Kayles too...

Sraw

Circle hooks 95% of the time. Big River sickle hooks for big live bait.

It's all about what works best for you.... I only use J's when fishing cut bait in current.

il second that

Both have situations where they are the best option.

Circle hooks are and old man's best friend.I fish with 8 rods in my boat and being 65 years young I don't have to jump up and set the hook,just ease that way, love em.

Circle hooks is all we use my great grandpa and grandpa like the J hooks but they also get mad when they loose big fish.

When you use circle hooks they work better with a somewhat whippy rod. If the rod is too stiff it works almost like if you were to grab the rod and set the hook.
The rod needs to load up as mentioned earlier before you start reeling, or you'll miss the fish.

just make sure that the circle hook you get has a big enough opening. some have small openings that a 20pounder cant even get a lip in. i use gamugotsu or however you spell it and they work great.