I think you hit an important factor Cecil - lack of shoreline vegetation, shallow water structure, submerged vegetation would render an almost bathtub like environment and would enable the SMB to control much more effectively - or other apex predators for that matter. Unfortunately my pondweed provides more than enough coverage for the BG population to continue to thrive. I've considered decreasing pellet feeding, but am hesitant at best.
If the pond is not to large, and the expense is not to great, you might want to consider Whitecap or Sonar. I know a couple of sources where you may get it at a more reasonable rate than the typical price.
