Gold&Black,

Ref the comment on feeders...I've made several posts here in the past complaining about LMB low catchability in a catch and release small pond with feeders. My stated theory is that feeders can adversely affect LMB fishing. The theory is based on observations at my ponds in which I can see LMB taking artificial feed but more importantly picking off unsuspecting BG at the feeders. I can see it at any given feeding time.

The adverse affects are 1) LMB are stuffed on BG and artificial feed all the time and not inclined to hit flys or lures 2) its much less work to pick off a BG at the feeder than stalk and capture one around structure and 3) my LMB actually become conditioned to prefer BG and about the only way I can catch one is on a live baby BG.

Many herein disagree with my theory.

Observation is the basis to support my thinking. I can catch 15 to 20 bass just about any time on flys in a small pond without feeders but can't hardly buy a LMB in a larger pond with artificial feeders. The pond with the feeders also has Florida strain bass whereas the other pond has native bass, a possible contributing factor also.

For my own edification, I'm running an "experiment" this year in a new 2 acre pond..stocked with F1s, BG, fatheads, and Tilapia and no, zero, artificial feeding.

Now, I'm not foolish enough to believe that in any way what I'm doing is scientific in any respect. I'm simply searching for the right combination of things that work for me and improve the fishing for my family.