Newer stocking research for trophy LMB indicates doubling the initial BG #s to 2000 per acre (if using 2 in BG)and reducing the initial LMB #s ( I would go with 70 per acre using 2 in fish). GShad if used should be delayed until 70% of your LMB are 18 in or larger. GShad can outgrow the ability of LMB to control them. There is very interesting research on the results of TShad mixed into ponds with GShad. I would avoid that. You may be to far north for TShad to avoid winter kill ( you may loose them in 2 out of 5 years). GShiners would be a good addition and FH are good to start. I can see no benefit to CC in a trophy LMB pond as they just take up space (carrying capacity) better used for forage and LMB growth. Some Florida LMB genetics will help with size in the trophy equation (say 25%). I am using 25% Fla , 25% F-1 , and 50% northern LMB in a balanced pond. If you want a trophy pond then you may want more Fla genes. However note that Fla LMB males are disproportionately small (smaller than northern).

Last edited by ewest; 09/09/08 08:30 PM.