me and my gf are going fishing tomorrow and i need some info. on how to rig some small live perch for catfishing from the bank ....3 way swivel? seems like the live bait would tangle itsself

I'd probably try a float with enough weight to keep the perch from swimming to the top.

If you use cut bait you can use one of those pyramid type sinkers with the hook above the weight. Your 3 way swivel idea will work. Live perch can tangle, you are right.

There are lots of variables like is it a lake or is there current, do you know how deep it is. All this effects how you might rig.

Yeah with perch i wouldnt due a 3 way, i would just throw the perch out in the middle of the river(if thats what you're fishing in, and give him quite a bit of slack. If you know of a good pool or slow spot wthat u think may hide catfish, put a couple ounces of weight on there and get ready to fillet a biggun!Good Luck

I would have my weight on the bottom with the live bait/perch above the weight at least 10-18" on a separate drop. You can make one of these yourself out of either heavy mono or braided line or with a single heavy duty barrel swivel...don't skimp on tackle just in case a big one happens to take the bait. You'll thank yourself in the end.

Good luck!!

well i'm gonna go out on a limb here and suggest a carlina rig.
That is the only rig i use for fishing live bait for cats unless i'm goin shallow