oldsconv,
I think you touched on the magic formula for stocking multiple predators. Abundance and diversity of cover is the great equalizer's among species in ponds and lakes.
Even the most carefully planned small ponds with plenty of structure have a lot less cover than many natural bodies of water.
The better ponds and lakes I have fished only had about 50 to 75% "fishable" waters. The rest being shallows, thick weeds, tree roots, etc that you can't even access. Diverse habitat and cover encourages diverse and plentiful forage, which supports diverse predators. Not sure, but I'm guessing that not too many folks are willing to sacrifice so much fishable water (and nice fish) in smaller ponds in order to carry extra predators. But I'm with you. I lean toward natural diversity, mostly because it's interesting. I am willing to sacrifice a little carrying capacity, growth rate, and size... but not a lot.
Last edited by bobad; 01/21/08 09:49 AM.
