Use two or more concrete blocks wired together or something of similar weight such as truck wheels or scrap metal for the end anchors. Provide a tie point to the first anchor that will not cut the mainline, such as a cable or a deflated innertube. In addition to the tie point, tie a substantial rope of a length greater than the depth of the water where it is to be set to the second anchor.

Tie one end of the mainline to the first anchor and place it in the water at the location you choose. A tree, rock, or other permanent fixture can be used. Extend the trotline in the desired direction and tie on a float at every three-way swivel, continuing on to the end of the mainline. Tie the mainline to the second anchor's tie point and drop the second anchor in the water, leaving the rope tied to the boat.

Note: The distance from the first hook to the end of the trotline must be at least three times the depth of the water at the anchor to prevent movment of the anchor when running the line.

Now, using the boat's engine, pull the rope to tighten the trotline until all the slack is out. Drop the rope, allowing the anchor to fall to the bottom. Place a float on the rope to mark it.

Pick up the line at the end float and begin looping the dropper hook assemblies onto the swivels, baiting the hooks as you go. Be sure that the lines to the floats are the proper length to suspend the hooks above the bottom or the thermocline. Hooks lying on the bottom are often stripped by crayfish before a catfish has a chance to find the bait.