If you do use live bait I advise that you cut a portion of the tail off right before casting it into the water.  This will accomplish two objectives.  First it will cause a small amount of blood into the water.  Secondly it will cause the fish to swim erratically in the water.  Predator fish instinctually recognize this as a prime feeding pattern and will often strike even if not in their normal feeding routine.
 
You may also want to consider chumming.  Chumming is simply placing into the water something that will attract fish to where you are.  There are many different things you can use for chum.  Ground fish works best, corn is often good and chicken livers are also very effective chum.  There are also a variety of chum bags on the commercial market that you can use.
 
When selecting a spot to fish you will want to find deep water, big catfish inhabit deeper water.   In rivers if you can find a deep hole that also has access to many prime feeding areas you have a great spot.  Trophy Catfish anglers are successful primarily because they take the time to scout the areas they fish and find these sports.  More than anything else knowledge of the location you are fishing is paramount to success.
 
This in a nutshell is trophy cat fishing.  It is an exercise that requires patience and experience.  You will become better and notice better results as you learn about the waters you fish regularly.  You will find that different techniques are required as your situation changes.  The ability to adapt to a variety of different situations is essential to consistent success on the water.

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