Every pond has a capacity to hold/grow fish. That amount can be augmented often by feeding or fertilization (if needed). But whatever the capacity amount, the fish will fill it with their kind if possible. The time period post initial fish stocking with small fish for a pond to reach capacity depends on several factors (water temp , location , growing season length and food available among others) but usually ranges from 18 mths and 2 years. In many cases when adult fish are present there is no more room for more fish (at capacity). When an event occurs (partial winter kill or DO event, failed spawn , over harvest, etc.) there will be more room for a short time before the remaining fish fill the space. These events can result in unbalanced fish populations. To make an informed choice one needs to have a good feel of what is left and how that/those fish fit into the plan. For example if conditions are right BG can often fill the void quickly. If those conditions do not exist (cold water) then the void will be filled by the next available fish to spawn or some combination. Keep in mind that with very small fish (yoy) natural mortalities are very high. In a several acre pond with an established BG population the loss of 10,000 small yoy BG is not a big factor. If the BG and other fish are fed it becomes even less of an issue.

Depending on goals and current status the existing BG may have already replaced the loss. If you are concerned then try to determine your current status first then decided whether to add fish. If it is just a food issue for one winter than adult FH can help the small WE.

Last edited by ewest; 10/18/17 09:31 AM.