Jeff, I've had best luck sampling FHM, GSH, GSF, RES, PS and BG with the minnow trap placed on the bottom of the pond in 1'-3' of water, with the trap openings placed horizontal to the shoreline.
I can't remember catching a YP in a minnow trap, but I've caught them in the fyke net, and that is placed on the bottom of the pond, not suspended.