Putting together bits from here and there, here is some ideas so far:
Cages would consist of panels made from plastic netting. The panels could be lined with a rubber coated galvanized wire (ideas???) Then we need to think of a good way to link the panels together to create the cage (ideas???)
A few standard size panels (4'x4', 2x3, etc) and mesh sizes (1/4", 1/2", 1" etc) could be made for various applications and cage sizes. Even with the possibility of linking panels together to create somewhat of a circular cage instead of square or rectangle. Just would take a circular top and bottom panel.
Advantages of having panels would be obvious for shipping, but also the plastic netting wouldn't be folded, creased, etc. ALSO if a panel does get damaged over time, it could easily be replaced. Basically the cage should last forever?
Accessories could be dock attachments, floats, feed rings, and even an automatic fish feeder could be designed. It should be something very simple that just has to drop food in the cage (ideas???)
Still looking for more ideas and improvements.
As far as the market for these cages, I think that in the next few years, the demand for all pond products and supplies is going to be HUGE! Pond owners are a few years behind land owners(especially deer people) in management and maximizing resources, but they are catching up fast.
In illinois MOST pond owners and waterfront property owners do not have any fish cages at all. Unlike PB members, they do not know these products exist and especially dont know where to get them or how to make them. This may be hard to believe, but most pond owners in Illinois do not even know that Pond Boss exists!
Bait cages (super convenient), holding pens (for cleaning at a convenient time), cages to raise fish for stocking, and cages to raise fish for eating are becoming very popular products that pond owners across illinois and Im sure nationwide are going to utilize for ultimate enjoyment of their pond.
How many Pond Boss members have fish cages of some sort already?
If you dont, I bet you have plans for a fish cage or holding pen in the future. They are just too fun and convenient to not experiment with.
