bowtiebubba,
My 2 cents worth:
1) start with the forage base as soon as possible and then stock predators next spring
2) only stock what you prefer (and in my case that means no catfish). Consider HSB as another predator. They are a spectacular pond fish if you have a feeding program and good forage.
3) Don't wait till next year
4) Vertex is a great system. I have one, but could not find one "cheap"...but I do recommend it. I did not buy the "package" just the compressor and diffusers and believe I saved money that way. Regardless, again it is a great system.
