Use a slip sinker rig, just enough weight to cast how far you need. The catfish has to pick up the bait without feeling any sinker. Use a Diiachi type 84 circle hook. For small cats use a #1/0 hook, for whoppers like that pic use a #7/0.
Bait, depends but the best are cut herring, shad or oily fresh fish. Prepared bait like secret 7 catfish bait. Chicken livers wrapped in a bait sack or tied to the hook with elastic thread so it stays on.
Like I said cats like to feed at night. Hold onto your pole
