Pond Boss Forums STOCKING A NEW POND Types of fish to choose Need advice on existing pond

My buddy and I have a pond in the MS Delta. It is about a 2 acre pond and has been around for many years. The previous property owner said he never stocked it or managed it in any way. He owned the property for about 8 years. Our goal is to have a catfish pond that our kids (and us) can fish. We want catfish mainly because they taste good and are relatively easy to catch. Here are some questions I have (but any advice would be appreciated)

1- Do we need to kill off all any fish that currently in the pond?
(If we do kill all the fish- what happens to them)
2- Can we stock just catfish (if not, what other species should we stock)?
3- Can we stock larger catfish to speed up the process?
4- Can we stock a smaller pond (1/2 - 3/4 acre)?

Thanks

The answer to questions 2,3, and 4 are yes. The first question is difficult. You need to know what's in the pond. If there are a lot of bass and you stock 3-5 catfish they will be eaten. Depending on how many bass you may not have even one catfish survive. You can have the pond shocked to see what is there. You can simply go fishing and find out what already exists in the pond. Tell the kids you are exploring and need their help.

You have come to the right place for help.

Good luck.

I agree with Swampstalker on 2,3, & 4.
Here's your answer for number 1.
If you have an existing population of fish that will impede your desired species, eradicate. If you have an existing population that doesn't impede, compete, or one that complements, don't eradicate.
For example...if your pond is loaded with green sunfish, no bass, a few bullhead catfish, here's what to expect. You can stock adult channel catfish, and they will do quite will. But, when it's time to fish, expect green sunfish and mudcats to be a nuisance. And, don't expect catfish to control sunfish or bullhead numbers. They won't.
But, if you have overcrowded bass that overeat the live fish food chain, and you stock large catfish, you will succeed, and the catfish will be easier to catch.
If you choose to stock heavy, plan to feed, and harvest. Catfish are notorious for overcrowding, resulting in fish kills.
So, know your fish population, then decide. You may want to hire a professional, to do a survey. Or, go fishing, and see what you catch. Fish big, fish small, and be absolutely sure you identify the fish.