I really appreciate the help.

I just got word that my nephews caught a 7 pound and two 5 pound bass today in the pond.

It's an old mill pond and hasn't been drained in over 25 years. Blackwater, lily pads, standing timber. There is an enormous beaver lodge. Even a little gator.

I tried fishing for bream with crickets around the dock, but kept catching huge golden shiners. I haven't seen any beds yet, but I'll definitely keep an eye out. I forgot to mention that we have caught some jackfish, too. The pond has a pretty bold creek running into it, so I think it has a little of everything in it.

I've put the word out to keep all crappie as advised. I'm trying to find somebody in my area to electrofish the pond. I'm going to talk to the SC DNR this week to see if they can recommend someone.

Once again, thanks for the advice. I've subscribed to the Pond Boss magazine and bought a couple of Bob Lusk's books.