Pond Boss Forums MANAGING AN EXISTING POND Corrective stocking Too hot to add bluegill?

If this is a repeat post/question/issue, feel free to redirect me...

We're planning to add about 1500 CNBG in a 3.5- to 4-acre pond in oklahoma. Wondering when the better time of year to do so is. Or the times not to do so. Perhaps it depends more upon water temperature? Any guidance or words of experience would be appreciated. Thanks!

It does depend on water temps. The risk goes up when its real hot or cold. Proper handling is key.

We're planning to add about 1500 CNBG in a 3.5- to 4-acre pond in oklahoma. Wondering when the better time of year to do so is. Or the times not to do so. Perhaps it depends more upon water temperature? Any guidance or words of experience would be appreciated. Thanks!

Interesting question, DVR. I don't know the answer, but there are many here who do.

A little help please, experts!

It does depend on water temps. The risk goes up when its real hot or cold. Proper handling is key.

Mike Robinson of Keystone hatchery in Illinois once told me he considers bluegills a "Goldilocks" species. That is he doesn't like to handle them in too cold of water or too warm of water. I've been told the larger they are the more sensitive they are too.

My guess is to cold of water sets them up for fungal issues and too warm of water may set them up for bacterial issues.

Any ideas on what water temps are considered too hot and too cold?

Assuming proper handling a safe range would be water temps between 55 F to 85 F. It can be done at warmer and colder temps but the risk goes up. CB1 has it on the risks and add general stress and low DOs at high temps.

Thanks!