New to flathead fishing!

[PakAttack86]

I've been fishing all my life, but I've only recently started seriously catfishing. I've discovered a spot near my home on the Minnesota river where the current comes to a still near a small, no longer active dam where there are rocks and tons of baitfish, which I assume should be a good spot for big flatheads. I've fished this spot a few days now and have only successfully pulled out a small flathead of maybe 5 or 6 pounds on a medium sized live sucker about a foot below a bobber.

For your experienced catters, what's the best approach for big cats this time of year? Do you prefer live bait or cut bait? When using cut bait are heads or filets better? Since MN only allows one rod out should I be focusing my bait near the bottom of the river or a couple feet under a bobber? I tend to fish between 7pm-10pm although I'd like to try more late night fishing. Thanks for any suggestions!

[Guatican]

From what i've heard from other people in the past, live or cut bait is your best bet. Shads work great, though I hear bullheads are another great alternative if you can't get to some shads. Again, this is what i've heard. I usually go for channels on the Minnesota but not flats, might need to try it myself. Good luck out there!

[phishnerd]

I'd stick with the livebait if you want to go after flatheads only.  That's not to say you won't catch a big channel but flatheads are looking for a big meal.  Like Guatican said bullies are a great choice as well.  If you're looking to better your odds at getting more action switch to fresh cutbait.  This will give  you more channel action as well as a shot at a flathead.  The flathead on my avatar was caught on a big ol' sucker steak.  I usually cut up a big 12" sucker into 4 pieces.  A head, 2 steaks and a tail piece.  Do a little scouting and find a few more places to try.  Give each spot 45 minutes or so and then move.  You can always come back and give your favorite spot another shot.  Switch your cutbait out every 20 minutes or so to keep the scent fresh.  You might consider trying straight line rig on the bottom if the snags are't too bad.  The more time you spend on the water the better your chances are at hooking that pig you're looking for.  Good luck and have fun!