Pond Boss Forums AERATION Systems questions New pond going into winter

I wish you well with this effort. I would say However that 8 lbs of fatheads are not nearly enough as they are the only food source that you described for the Walleyes.

Typically you need to add in the forage fish ( Minnows, crayfish, ...etc ) prior to adding in the next fish in the food chain. You need to give the forage fish time to establish and multiply enough to support some of the larger fish. That being said, walleyes are at or near the top of the food chain. Thus those minnows don't stand much of a chance and will not last long. The walleye will also suffer for lack of food. I hate to sound negative but in my experience it is very important to build up the food chain and let each part of it take time to take hold.

If the walleye make it to next season, you will have to find a way to establish the forage base rapidly. This may require some costly decisions around what to put into the pond and how much to over stock it such that some will make it through to spawn the next season.

The hardest thing I have had to do with my pond is wait to stock the pond with what I want while what is needed is taking hold. But that being said, my pond is much better for it and is in great shape because of it.

As for the depth only being 6' in the pond, I am not so sure that any of the walleyes will make it due to where you live and how thick the ice usually gets there without any aeration. I hope that some of them make it through and that you have a few thaws that add volume to your pond as the winter carries on. If you do lose them all then I would really suggest you take it slower and let the food chain establish prior to adding the big boys into the pond.

I hope all goes well for you and welcome to the fun of pond management!!!