Alvord/Sniper
Why not stock CSBG [Condello Northern Strain BG] or RES/BG hybrids? My bet is either would outperform CNBG in terms of survival and size. Just a thought and then no worries about a winterkill.
Larry/Mr Hello
Rex [Rainman] will have Condello Strain BG that size this Summer, maybe early Summer/Late Spring if he hasn't already sold out. In Fisherman and Pond Boss magazine have done features on these fish, and there's a website dedicated to them as well [bigbluegill.com]. I strongly recommend touching base with Rex on getting these genetics in your ponds. I have personally witnessed 8.5" growth on a 22 month old fish. Pretty amazing stuff.
TJ, I got 10 inches and 1 lb growth in 22 months out of a few of my last stocking of Overton's CNBG.
http://www.pondboss.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=207020&page=1 
