In smaller ponds, HSB do fine until they hit 4 or so pounds. George can share his experiences. Once they get over that size, they require cooler higher DO waters and die.
I can spend the rest of my life fishing for 4-5 lb HSB, the greatest small “put and take” pond fish introduced into small Texas ponds.
Who has a small LMB pond that you can consistently catch 3-5 lb fighting fish on a daily basis that are also excellent table fare?
A 3 lb HSB will out fight a 5 lb LMB and a 5 pounder will make the hair stand up on the back of your neck.
Of course I am a dyed in the wool fly fisherman.
For several years I have successfully raised HSB in a small ¼ pond with no aeration for transfer to 2-acre pond with aeration.
The “secret” for success for HSB in a “put and take” species pond is to create a annual “stocking ladder”, restocking desired numbers of 8+ inch HSB on late winter/early spring schedule.
