Usually successful pickoffs occur when baserunners are attempting to gain an extra base. An absolutely great time for the catcher to get a pickoff is on bunt attempts.
The most common time is when there is a runner on 1st and the batter is trying to advance the runner to 2nd. The 3B may commit when he would like. There is nothing for him to guard against. The 1B must hold the runner on base so he is staying near the bag until the ball gets bunted. The pitcher has 1B responsibility. If the batter misses the bunt, an aggressive secondary will put him in "no mans land" and an alert catcher should have an opportunity. A point of note, usually the slower runners at 1B try and get the extra head start.
Another opportunity for the catcher exists at 2B. But, in order to pull this one off you definitely need a catcher with a strong arm. The same situation applies except the runner is trying to be advanced to 3B. Rather than the 1B catching the pickoff attempt it would be the SS rotating over to cover the bag.
Next time there is a bunt situation, look for the missed bunt and if the catcher comes up firing. It's almost automatic at the big league level.
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