I think the size of the pond plays a big role also, in determining how well or IF a hands off strategy works. It surely must if the pond relies upon angling pressure as a management tool. Too small and the pond can get out of kilter easily and quickly, and too large means the angler's efforts may not have any effect.
Maybe there's a Goldilocks' zone regarding a pond size? A half acre isn't that large, how much food do you anticipate being available in there?
A self-sustaining, perfectly balanced population in a small pond can be a tough row to hoe.
