I saw a video on catfish fishing without a hook, and they guy, just put a chunk of meat, or ball of cheese, in a cheese cloth, and tied it on his fishing line, and when he felt the catfish take the bait, he just gently pulled it up, and pulled it into the boat. I can't remember if he used a net or not, but I don't think so. They are like crabs in that they do not want to lose the bait. All he had to do was touch the fish, and it usually let go of the bait. Good luck with the gorge, I don't think you will have any problems with it. You should be able to get three or four tries before they wise up.
Wayne