Not an expert by any means, but I had a nearly identical situation to what you describe, stunted LMB/BG pond in recovery, to which I added a full load of shad two years ago, as well as tilapia. The shad certainly took hold and did well thru last year, we've had a lot of cold weather this winter and I know for certain I lost some to the cold.

I don't think it would be wasted money to try a 1/4 load, put in in April before they spawn, especially if you really drop the hammer on the small bass for a month or so prior. I removed about 40# just before stocking, I think this helped.

PM me and I can suggest a supplier with some larger broodstock.