I dont think 3-5 feed trained catfish would be a problem to leave in. 30-50 would be a different story.

Docks and Structure that provide good shade (suspended 4x8 sheets of plywood) provide great ambush points.

Ideas for the remainder of 2008 that wont drain the pocket book:

Definitely pick up a tag gun (but dont release but 5% of your bass this fall)

Harvest lots of bass ASAP (if you do harvest too many {you wont be able too} they will bounce back bigger and better)

Bump up your feeding (use small pellets)