If you could target single sex LMB or get them from other pond boss members you could still have a LMB predator pond and not have to rely so heavily on a huge BG forage base to keep them going. But once LMB reproduce it gets tough to balance predator and forage unless you can fish out the smaller LMB.
I love your raised rock in the middle!!
Are HSB allowed in NY? A perch, HSB combo with a few RES (if they can survive that far north) or pumpkinseed for panfish fishing might be interesting to try.
Bill can also suggest what else would mix well with YP in your area and with your goals.
Some PB members in Ohio (and perhaps indiana and illinois?) have access to pond-spawning spotfin shiners (and others) which I would like to try but commercial fish outfits in Michigan don't sell them that I'm aware of.
