Here are my thoughts. We raise HSB on our farm, and have a good idea of survival rates respective to LMB predation. Here's what size HSB would guarantee good survival rates with respective bass population:
3"-5" HSB with 4"-6" or smaller LMB population
5"-7" HSB with 12" or smaller LMB population
6"-8" HSB with 15" or smaller LMB population
Once HSB are stocked with adequate forage they will grow very fast, very fat, very quickly. Therefore, availablility of forage fish is a factor in determining HSB survival rates with LMB populations. Food size HSB are expensive, and so it is recommended that fish be grown out in a separate pond or in cages before introduction with LMB if it seems likely they will face serious predation.
FYI, we've seen 1+ lb growth on HSB and LMB in 6 months when stocked out with unlimited tilapia food source.
I don't spend much time on the forum, so please email me if you feel my opinion would be valuable.
Todd Overton
