The best way to sharpen a hook would be in a point to bend motion (fore to aft). Look head-on to the point, you want a triangle appearance. The hook now has three cutting surfaces vice one in a round appearance. To check sharpness, try to drag the point across your thumbnail. If it drags, it needs more attention. I like the Tiemco ceramic sharpener. One side is coarse, the other extremely smooth for fine tuning.

The others will have to help you with the plug department. I haven't fished Steelies in years with gear.

Downriggin'