Tom, two years ago I put (10) channel cats in my 6-7 acre pond. I've never seen them since, but from what I've heard, you don't see them for two to three years, but when you do, look out. I don't know if that's true.

So your LMB are getting close to two years old; 9" long seems somewhat short for that age. Some other members should be able to chime in on that.

There are plenty of "Ahians" here as Theo Gallus might say. I'm certain that they would have experience with both fish suppliers you are dealing with.

Be tactful if you choose to mention names. I would wait to hear from some other Ohio members before you act.

Good luck.

Excerpt from Robert Crais' "The Monkey's Raincoat:"
"She took another microscopic bite of her sandwich, then pushed it away. Maybe she absorbed nutrients from her surroundings."