I'm in my second season w/ Talapia.............if you've got them by themselves w/o a fish to compete for the bait it should be easy.........I use a #8 hook weight down w/ split shot under a float......use some power bait grubs that might closely resemble fish food in color and shape. I have to wait in the fall for cooler water temperture as the bluegill and catfish aren't so agressive and the Tilapia shy.