Hello,
I am a first time poster but long time reader of this forum. I have a 4 acre pond that is approximately 40 years old and has not been managed. I have heard tales of large LMB the size of a small child and BG that could snap 15lb test like it was silly string.
I have come to the conclusion that these initial observations were a bit exaggerated. My own conclusions are a lot more realistic I believe.
First, I found in June of this year, an abundance of small skinny bass. This led me to believe that I have a stunted bass situation. No bass had been harvested for several years prior. The results have been skinny bass 10-12in long and prolific BG in all ranges but the 2-3in range.
Second, someone has in the distant or recent past, introduced white crappie to the pond. From what information I have gathered, crappie can be detrimental to smaller ponds due to irregular reproductive cycles. According to the Alabama Dept of Conservation, crappie really need a larger impoundment to be successful. Usually, 25 acres or better.
Here is what I have done so far:
1. I have begun harvesting LMB's. Since July 1st of this year, I have taken 91 bass from the pond all in the 10-12in range.
2. I had a pond sample tested and found alkalinity to be at 20ppm, so I added 27 tons of ag lime to the pond in preparation for a fertilization program.
3. I began a fertilization program to increase pond productivity. Prior to fertilization, water clarity was at approximately 10ft. Currently, since ceasing fertilization in October, the clarity is at 36".
4. I started a BG feeding schedule. Many BG are in the 10-12oz range, the largest weighed in at 14oz so far. I have ceased the feeding due to cooler water temps and lesser feeding activity.
5. I have introduced 20 grass carp to control moss and algae. They have doubled in size since their introduction in July.
6. I have been removing access vegetation, namely lily pads, from around the pond banks to make it easier for the LMB to capture small BG. There is still plenty of structure for the BG and LMB.
Currently, I think this program has been working. I am still catching small bass, but they are no longer skinny. All bass I have caught in the last month have been over their optimum weights according to the chart by the American Fisheries Society.
My problem is clearing out the unwanted crappie. I have tried to catch out as many as I can, but I was wondering if there were other methods I have not tried that might be more effective?
Jay Haffner with the Ala Dept of Conservation said if I am a patient person, we could grow the LMB to the point where they could take care of the problem themselves. Trouble is, I am not that patient.
I have considered connecting a lead from a 6kw generator mounted on my jon boat and creating my own redneck shock boat. My wife asked that I up my life insurance before proceeding with this idea.
I was also wondering if the BCBG was capable of swallowing a 10in crappie? The only drawback to introduction of the Condello strain is possible predation on the LMB.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
