You are conflicted because your goals are not firmly established and somewhat conflicted. Producing the biggest SMB involves limiting their reproduction to none or minimal reproduction. Not wanting to ladder stock then infringes on the best method to achieve trophy SMB. So if you like the uncertainly, experimenting, and to learn the basic fishery management principles then encourage the SMB to be prolific. Your experimenting should still allow you to produce some 3-4 lb (16.5"-19") smallies in one acre.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 01/18/18 02:33 PM.
