I've never included LMB in the equation in any of my ponds.
Remeber the following absolute truth: You can always add fish later.
What's the worst that can happen if you don't include LMB originally? You might have to invest a few hundred bucks in adult fish to catch up.
One thing I'd make absolutely certain of is that the HSB had plenty of opportunity for predation. i.e. little or no cover, and limited vegetation.
You may also have to embark on a serious bluegill control program by angling, trapping, and/or seining.
What about contacting Lusk, or Overton, or Grimes and try to add in some all-female LMB? That way you could grow a few absolute trophy specimens, not have to worry about overpopulation or stunting of LMB, and keep the HSB as the dominant predator?
Lots to think about. I'm certainly not saying that people shouldn't stock LMB. They're an incredible fish, but I'm always intrigued by people who might try to make a go without 'em.
