My association with wildlife and fish is typically one of predator (me) and prey (them). I enjoy taking care of them, and managing them in a responsible way so as to ensure future harvests. I also enjoy watching them, but I don't typically do a lot of catch and release fishing or photography, etc.
BUT...we have had the new pond for just over a year now. We stocked a number of large (close to and over 1 lb) BG and RES last spring, and 12-15" LMB this spring. We also stocked smaller BG, RES, FHM, and CC. Here's the challenge...the BG, RES, LMB, and CC have started eating worms out of our hands! We have millions of alabama jumping worms (I think they are actually an asian infestation, but the fish LOVE them), and we get a 32 ounce cup full, take them to the dock, grab them by the tail, and put our hand in the water. The fish enjoy our offerings.
It's pretty neat to have 12" RES eating out of your hand! This past weekend the boys jumped in the lake to see if the fish would still eat out of their hands...yep! They then started putting the worms between their toes to get them in deeper water for the catfish...something ate them! Next thing you know they will be naming the fish!
Due to the young age of the lake and my desire to get a good base going, we haven't taken anything out yet...but will probably start next year. Even for me, it's going to be challenging to take those nice RES out.
Last edited by Tree Farmer; 09/06/13 02:27 PM.
