Here is some of the equipment and rigs that we use:

The Boat  17' Lund w/70HP Yamaha Outboard, Minn-Kota All Terrain Trolling Motor, Richter Anchors and Monster Rod Holders

   

Rods 7 1/2' Surge rods and 7' Shakespeare PowerRods | Also - Tiger UglyStik
Reels Penn 209, Penn 3/0 Senator, Abu Garcia 7000 and Shimano 6500 BR Spinning Reels
Hooks Gamakatsu 8/0 and 10/0 hooks 
Line 65lb/80lb test PowerPro | Catfish Nation Mono 50lb test | Berkely Big Game 40lb
Sinkers Bank, Egg, No-Roll Sinkers depending on conditions. 1oz-12oz

     

Rigs  

This is the typical Carolina rig that we use. Generally, your main line is tied to a 1/0 or 2/0 swivel. On that line a sinkerslider is placed and a glass or rubber bead is used to keep it from damaging the knot on the swivel. On the other end of the swivel, is 18" - 24" of 50lb test line tied to the hook. This rig allows the bait to swim freely and for a fish to take your bait without feeling pressure on the other end.  The 3 way rig pictured above is one that I use for drifting.

Baits Typically for trophy catfish we will use fresh baits. Mostly we use shad, skipjack, mooneye, bluegills, and creek chubs. Fresh bait can sometimes be the key to getting the fish to bite if the bite is slow. Additionally, skipjack are a lot fun to catch on light tackle.