With reproducing smallies the pond will need good and maybe even extensive refuge habitat so the smaller forage items that are less than 5" long will be able to avoid predaton for numerous small SMB. Lots of YOY and 1 yr old SMB can cause a lot of damage to small forage fish. You won't believe the extent until you experience it. The other options would be A. to remove lots of swim-up fry before the schools get skittish or B. remove fingerlings with traps and seines which is more difficult IMO and experience.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 08/15/12 08:42 PM.
