A coupla thoughts

First, sit back and figure out what you want and expect out of the pond. In other words, define your goals. Being uncertain about goals at an early stage is OK. Just sit back, watch and play with it and keep studying about ponds. Have your water quality checked by a reputable lab and make a sechi disk to determine your fertility.

Your best tool will be a log of fish and other creature sightings. Over time, this will tell you a lot about your new toy.

Yep, Aquashade is controversial. I don't like it. The basis of pond life is phytoplankton which needs sunlight penetration.

It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa