I am having a 2 ac pond dug within the next week. I would like a qaulified opinion on stocking rates, as well as what to stock and when. Is this pond big enough to qaulify for a ''trophy bass'' pond? I do not want a strictly catfish pond, but don't mind stocking them, if needed for a balanced system. I was told that I needed to have 3-4 brush piles 25'-30' in diameter. The stocking rates that I was given were 8,000 fathead minnws, 2,000 golden shiners, 1,200 coppernose bluegills, 500-600 catfish. These fish were to be added as soon as the water level was 4 ft. Then I was to add 200 LMB in the spring. I am new to this subject and new to this site, any help would be very much appreciated.

It depends on your definition of trophy bass. Of you want big bass, go with less in the initial stocking and cull anything under 12 or so inches after a couple of years. I doubt that you need the shiners. They can always be added later if you want them. The bluegills ought to be enough forage.

The catfish don't really add balance. They are OK but 200 ought to be enough. Personally, I like the cats. I like to watch them feed and the Grandkids love them. After 4 years, some of mine are up to 7 or 8 pounds.

Those numbers were given to me by the local fish supplier. I thought the catfish numbers were too high. I am not looking necessarily for a trophy pond, I just want a nice fishing hole for my family. Thank you guys for all your help.

Local fish sellers are in the fish selling business. No way I'd put that many cats in a 2 acre pond. If you're looking for a nice family fishing hole, cats can be a good deal. They are great for kids. I don't regret stocking them and when I fish out the ones I have, I'll get more. Of course, once bass are in there, you have to go with 10 to 12 inch cats instead of 4 to 6 inch.