Each member of the lepomis family is different. Each should be viewed according to its traits to reach a goal set by a pond owner or fisheries manager. So it all depends on the goal and use. Each is a tool to be used in the proper situation. Look at the variety of what different pond owners want and you can understand the differing opinions wrt many matters. Keep in mind that as a % far more pond owners goals are for a quality LMB/lepomis pond. That is not possible with a GSF forage base and LMB in most situations. It is possible with a BG forage base and LMB. The difference is in the trait of reproductive potential to serve as forage. BG have enough reproductive potential GSF do not. I would not say one is trash the other not but each is a tool to reach a goal. Use the right tool to reach the goal. Use the wrong tool to reach the goal and be dissatisfied with the results. Unsatisfactory results lead to negative comments and opinions. It is not the tools fault but the owner or manager. It can get the manager fired so he has a natural bias against things that have a high risk of failure.