In NW OH which should have similar climate as NJ, and we can't get Gambusia to survive in ponds with some weeds and just yellow perch and no bass. Gambusia will survive in ponds in our area that do not freeze out and have no predators. I suspect the Gambusia do not do well with ice and any sort of predator. Their small size and 'southern genetics' could be a disadvantage in areas with ice cover. Your experiences with them will help provide more knowledge.
Plan on having some submerged vegetation for long term survival of minnows and shiners with SMB present. Soft rayed forage survial will have a lot to do with how well the SMB are able to recruit.
I'm nosey - where you getting your chubsuckers?? Other planned foragae should be no problem. Chubsuckers should do a lot to creating a great SMB pond.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 08/07/12 11:45 AM.
