Pond Boss Forums POND CONSTRUCTION Renovating a Pond or Lake? Newbie Existing Pond Questions - Where to start..!

I know the type of soil, I've seen it before. The dark mucky soil comes from 100's of years of organic matter. If the pond winterkilled once, it will do so again unless steps are taken to prevent that (i.e. aeration with an electric aerator).

If the water level bounces up and down, then you should base your stocking rates on the lowest water levels.

If fish die, I'll bet the turtles clean them up pretty quickly. Are you able to visit the pond daily? If GSH live in the pond, then I think the BG/LMB would too.

It probably is just a matter of finding out where the fish are hanging out to catch them. If it was my pond, I wouldn't put any more crappie in there - I don't want to spend that much time managing my pond (dealing with crappie).