Pond Boss Forums STOCKING A NEW POND Raising Forage and Bait Raising fathead minnows

Hi all,
I had a recent fedex delivery of 1000 fathead minnows to feed some bass and am now toying with the idea that I could raise my own when I place another order.
I'm thinking of getting an IBC tank and just submerging the whole deal except for the top in one of my ponds off the dock. I could cut some holes in the sides and cover those with aluminum window screen so to keep the fry inside and big fish out. Ponds never freeze so could feasibly do this year round and oxygen and fresh water shouldn't be an issue since it will be in the pond.
Anyone think this may or may not work? Appreciate the input.

Hey JR1,

Sounds like a fun project!

I am not a pro but, IMHO things that come to mind right away you should be prepared for are.....

The screen wire will probably need to be cleaned frequently, as it will probably quickly grow over and choke with algae.

You will not be able to produce enough FHM in a small tank (I am guessing 300 gallon tank or so?) to provide much forage to your ponds.

Good luck and please keep us posted.

Bill D.

Hey JR1 where did you order your minnows from? looking to get some myself, can you share the link?

Hey joe
Sent you a pm to contact Bobby Rice there in Florida