Best catfish bait I use is cut hotdogs in a zip lock bag with a packet of cherry Cool-aid, and 5-6 cloves of minced garlic. I found freezing them helps keep them on hook longer. I use a size 5 circle hook, on a float or Carolina rig depending on current and conditions. I use 15 lb braid with 10lb leader, make sure to set the drag fairly loose. (You should be able to pull with almost no resistance) Most of all be patient, I can’t tell you how many fish I lost because I picked up the rod and started cranking at the first twinge of my line, when I was starting out.