Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations 2 small ponds with crappie and there not over populated

helpmypond - D.Willis negelected to mention that northern pike not only eat 8"-10" yellow perch and big panfish BUT they also LOVE 8" to 12" bass! Two large pike in my 3/4 acre pond loved my small bass so much that none made it to the 13" to 14" size. Got almost no bass recruitment until the pike were removed. I think the pike ate more bass than bgill. Personally, I would rather thin the bass rather than have the pike do it because you have more control if you are doing it.

I tend to agree with his experiences with crappies; both black and white. High numbers of small bass are key to a successful black crappie population in smaller northern ponds. Got to maintain an abundance of small bass esp. during years when the crappie spawn. Young crappies love bass fry to death! and can eliminate or severly reduce bass hatchlings based on the conditions. It depends and is highly variable. Be careful.