I had the same thought about all the 1.5" BG I've seen and trapped. I did notice a couple of males tending nests toward the end of Sept but had no idea there would be that many survive that spawn.

And the minnows!! Oh my lord!!

.10 surface acre pond, 10.5 foot deep. SW LA. The epitome of a mutt pond. BG, LMB, GSF, RES, BH, Warmouth, Longear Sunfish, Gambusia,Mud Minnows, Crappie, and now shiners!!...I subscribe!!