Hi Beau,

I am new here too, but have been reading and lurking since February. I also am a lifelong fisherman and observer of nature. While I am not qualified to give advice, I will share what I have read and my interpreation with you. I also have a .25 acre pond (in Texas) which faces some of the same temperature challenges as you.

I was excited about GG as well when I heard and read about them, and it was this forum that somewhat discouraged me away. I found threads discussing the traits, and even some with good debate "from the other side" arguing the benefits of them. Unfortunately, when questions were asked about genetics or actual growth patterns the threads went dormant ... some of them are over two years old and still do not have answers from Debra/Ken. I have a hard time believing that the questions cannot be answered, but that the answers are more unfavorable to this crowd. I have nothing against them per say, but everything I have read about GSF crosses and hybrids are directly opposed to my goals of healthy sized BG.

Have you considered the approach of a CNGB, RES and adding LMB one year later combination? Using a reasonable stocking plan it seems to be very successful for many people... perhaps the proverbial tried and true.

Again, I am not an expert, but 1000 fish sounds high to me for a .25 acre pond, especially with 250 predators. I look forward to others replies as well.