Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Stunted Bass pond

Tent

I think I understand your goals. I love your idea of a hatchery/forage pond. Too cool.

On the BG pond, without any predation you will be facing potential overpopulation and stunting issues unless you harvest or collect and move to LMB pond frequently. Also, you'll need to consider feeding these fish as their high populations may outpace your pond's ability to provide enough forage to go around. Aqua Max and a Sweeney or Texas Hunter feeder will fit the bill. You may also want to consider adding some RES on initial stocking to provide a bonus fish. They do not compete with BG and will help keep snails hammered reducing risk of grub infections in your BG.

On the LMB pond I see 50-100 LMB/acre recommendations often on the forum. I'm not a LMB guy, but were it my goal to produce abundant LMB action on a micro pond like this I would still stock BG and RES and consider another forage fish too - like whatever Shiner is native to your area. Once your forage base is established [6 - 12 mos] I would stock your LMB. For a 1/3 ac pond where your goal is plenty of LMB action I would consider stocking 50+. If your forage base is solid, you may not even have to sacrafice size as much as you're anticipating. With a heavy LMB population you will also have the bonus of trophy sized BG in that fishery.

Have you considered going single sex LMB in your pond to prevent overpopulation and keep sizes roubust? I don't know how hook shy LMB become, but it's an option to consider.