The best way to catch big fish is to target the largest species of fish where you live during different times of the year. This means that you need to focus on fish such as channel catfish, carp and northern pike. All three of these species have a wide geographical distribution across the United States and you can catch them in the spring, summer and winter. All you need is some knowledge, which increases your chances of catching a memorable trophy fish.
Carp - Use much the same equipment to catch carp, the largest fish in most river systems in the United States. Instead of fishing during times of high water though, you want to wait until the hot days of summer and concentrate on the deeper pools along a riverbank when the water is down. Carp will seek a shady spot and stay in one area for a length of time. Fish as heavy as 20 pounds are not rare. Carp will take such baits as the night crawler, corn and doughballs affixed to the hook. Have your fishing pole and reel in top shape when after carp; they will tax lighter equipment to its limit. Always have a fishing net with you when after carp, and once you have finally tired the fish out, guide it to the net, which you want to keep low in the water, scooping up the fish when it is over it.