Catfish historically feed off the bottom, however when they are hungry they can be feeding anywhere in the water column. I usually fish about a foot off the bottom. I have good luck with cut bait, nightcrawlers or raw shrimp,
10 pound Power Pro. Small diameter , very castable and able to catch anything from panfish ,to bass and Northern Pike.
Check your drag to make sure there is enough that line has resistance so your rod reacts and causes your bell to ring.
It takes very little algae or cottonwood fluff to render a spincast reel useless. Take of the cover and check the line on your spool.
I have luck with jitterbugs and lures that have propellers.
I use shrimp catfishing. I have added garlic. I have used anise oil. I buy raw shrimp, the peel and eat type that still have a partial shell. Run your hook through the shelled portion. Scent pretty much depends on the day. I have caught cats on the unscented or the anise scented the most.
Discount tackle has an amazing selection. Flat rate shipping is $3.99.
Replace your line. Wind it on it is 1/16 to 1/8 inch below the upper rim of the spool. Should end your problem.
As long as you set your drag properly you can exceed the line rating on your rod. I personally believe that Power Pro is the best braid available on the market. .Additionally it is reasonably priced. Enjoy the new rig..
It has been a standing rule by the Wisconsin DNR
I only use a fluoro leader when fishing very clear water. With the thin diameter of 10 pound Power Pro and moss green color I usually don't use a leader.
I keep a cooler with ice in the boat and put fish in as they are caught. When I get home I fillet my catch. Here in Wisconsin it is illegal to dispose of fish guts in lakes and rivers. I freeze the carcasses and put them in the garbage on pick up day. When I gardened, I buried my refuse from cleaning.