cmanjim, i have the exact same situation. i made a rip rap (rock almost 1/2 the size of bowling balls) barrier across the upper end of my pond. i think it really helps with the sediment. i get a huge amount of water in my pond during a heavy rain, with the barrier i can see muddy water above it but mainly clear below.
i also have been raking leaves from my pond. i have an easy way to lower my water level. i have a 4" pipe thru my dam next to my regular standpipe and the valve is on the dry side. i lower it from time to time so air can get to the leaves and such..
i have noticed a lot of little creep crawleys like you mentioned too. i figured the bluegill and redear would eat most of these??
