the barrels are supposed to support 400 lbs each. I have been loading about 2000lbs with the front end loader each time. I weigh 230 so that has to be added also. I was afraid I was going to sink it more than once. I am now seeing the bass both white and black feeding along with the bluegill at the feeders. I think muddy water is very detrimental to all of the fish species that are sight feeders. The only fish that the muddy water didnt seem to harm were the catfish. Muddy water is bad for fish and is unsightly if you can do something about it you should at least try.