To comment on the circle hook question. I've seen more and more guys going to this because they can be very effective and will almost 100% give you a perfect hook set in the corner of their mouth. The biggest thing to remember with these, is you can't set the hook. Just a nice steady pull of the line. It's pretty funny to see guys do the lawnmower pull and then remember their tip-up had a circle hook on it. Give them a try, see how you like them. I've used them for 2years now and I like them alot.
TightLines,
GatorBait