I'm new at this, but we also found out quick that CC do have 'great' memories! We finally figured out a way to catch them though. We feed them in the normal way about 45 minutes before dark. Give them about 15 minutes undisturbed feeding time, and tried to spread out the feed in about 80 - 100 feet area. After a while the feed would drift up next to the bank. Then, throw out a 'catfish' hook with liver on 20 lb test line, maybe 2 or 3 feet from the bank. I think they are like sharks in a feeding frenzy. After I caught one on the north end of the feeding area, I would walk down toward the south end to try again. Seemed less likely to be spooked if I didn't just keep fishing the same area.
I also used a swivel above the hook because I have a hard time getting the hook out of their mouth. I would just click the swivel, pull off the hook "fish attached" and slip on another hook. I felt like 'speed racer'. After I caught as many as I was willing to clean that night, I would head to the shop and then I would 'retrieve' my hook for use the next night.
I've learned a lot this past summer. Thanks to you Pond Boss!
