I have both and I would agree, the 10" will do better at slower speeds. The 10" also fishes deep alot easier. The 9" is easier to burn near the surface. The 10" will get alot more depth out of a given retrieve.

As for hook up ratio, if you rig up a good stinger hook on the belly, the hook up ratio is good. This is a must. All you need is sevenstrand wire, crimps, split rings and treble hooks.