Funky, thanks for the post and the update. I agree, it is hard to feel depressed when you get to observe the renewal of life in the pond. This time of year is extra fun for me as I get to watch the perch ribbons appear and develop. However, it also means a lot of work raking all the nasty winter sludge and leaves out of the shallows.
I would encourage you to try to get some adult YP established in your pond if that is still possible with your LMB. They are easy to raise, very hardy, easy to catch, very good to eat and add diversity in forage for your LMB as well!
