BBJR
Thank you for the reply. I think you can manage those LMB if you work at it - and that's a fun job!
I hate to admit it, but the LMB I have caught in the pond have fought harder than the comparable size SMB I have caught, this year.
SMB spawning on the sand is great information for the forum as most of us feel rock beds are necessary. I wish you had managed some photos for us - this is a great insight.
I have never had any luck trying to take pics of things under the water. The glare always creates conditions where you can't see anything. Any tips for photos like this?
My YP also hug the bottom during daytime conditions. Moistening pellets may be something you can try as they slowly sink and might be more readily targeted by the YP? Otherwise, let us know about switching to dusk feedings. I know my YP are feeding when I see a figure 8 pattern of ripples when they take [ala Condello].
I added a feeding time at 8:15 pm, last night, and eliminated my noon feeding. So we will see how it goes. I will try moistening the pellets and hand feeding if that don't work.
I too have riprarian conditions all around my ponds, I simply didn't know to employ that term to describe it. Thank you! Sure is easy to manage [ie: no mowing], but I am keeping all my cottonwoods pulled [when I can] or I spray them when their tap root is too established. Talk about a PITA...not an easy chore - but water is a commodity in my area and cottonwoods are notoriously thirsty - so I have no choice. I may allow a couple to take off and provide some much needed shade, however.
I read a PB mag article a couple of years ago, that dealt with this. I was already sick of trying to keep up with all the vegetation that grew on the shoreline, so I was ready for any excuse to leave it there. It does seem to have a very positive affect, and it turns out I like the look of it to boot.
