gregWV :

You can do this !! Don't be overwhelmed at all the info. There are lots of choices and ways to approach your ponds but they all revolve around the basics as Bill described them.

If you are thinking about HSB as noted you need to check on your water temps and dissolved oxygen (DO) in summer. It is possible to mix and match plans (stock some small fish and some larger fish at the same time to establish your base faster). BG or HBG stocked at 3-5in. in spring will quickly be large enough to catch if you feed them.

Now that you have seen and read the first set of replies. Think about what you want (not types of fish but what type of fishing/recreation experience) and how much time/effort you plan to put into the project. With that refined plan/info we can help you get where you want to go if mother nature will allow it.