I wish I could get good results with BG as I do with CC using the same feed. I can buy 50 pounds of 32% CC pellets for $22 including taxes, whereas 40 pounds of Optimal BG costs $50. Likely the Optimal would have better results for BG, but about half of it would get consumed by CC before the BG get to it. I don't know if results for CC would be much better with Optimal BG than with 32% CC pellets.
We use what call feeding cylinders to keep grass carp from eating feed intended for Bluegill that might keep most of you catfish out. It is a modification of a feed ring. Screened lid might, I say might, increase value of the feeding structure for the fish as it protects from overhead predators (@#$%!$#@% herons).
If interested I will see about posting an image and better description of design. Setup does not help control competitiveness of Green Sunfish.
Aquaculture Cooperative Research / Extension Lincoln University of Missouri
