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I use it on my production ponds but that's after I get it down to 6 inches or less in only one part of the pond. I just shovel it out and spread it on the water and soon the fish will start agitating and float to the surface. I do think I had a fathead survive liming but I sure don't know how.

Liming to Sterilize

Hydrated lime. or calcium hydroxide, is also used in fish ponds. While it will increase hardness (the calcium component), and temporarily increase the total alkalinity (the hydroxide component), its primary effect is to raise the pH of mud and water quickly and dramatically.

Ponds should be drained and cleaned prior to applying this product. Enough hydrated lime should be added to cover the entire bottom with a thin layer, and then water added. The pH in the upper layer of the mud and in the water will rapidly rise to 12 or higher, a level which will kill most disease agents and/or pests. The elevated pH will last for about a week, prohibiting any stocking of fish. Always check the pH before stocking.

Adding hydrated lime is not recommended when fish are present in the pond. The sudden increase in pH is often lethal.

The use of hydrated lime is recommended when there is any concern of carrying diseases or pests over to the next crop. It has limited, long-term impact on total alkalinity and pH.

Hydrated lime is considered to be a strong base, and care should be taken when applying. Avoid breathing the dust and do not allow it to contact skin or eyes.

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/FA028