Originally Posted By: edc10
What if only stocked a half a dozen this fall?


I don't see much of a problem with it. It would let you try it with out much investment or setback of time. Lets play out the scenario;

You buy 6 RBT at 11" in October for 30.00 total. You buy a bag of feed for 35-50.00. The trout eat all the minnows you have stocked plus you need to feed them daily. There is a commitment by you to do that on a regular-time basis, but by doing this you also reap the enjoyment of watching them feed. You fish for them in spring. Perhaps you only catch half, or all. The size could be from 14-17" with the possibility of weight pushing 3#. Lots of factors can change all this. You have some trout dinners. You may get some algae issues in the spring that may be tougher to combat because you have trout. Trout and copper don't get along. However the trout will be gone in awhile, and then you can manage the algae anyway you like. Throw some more FHM in and begin the process all over again, or get it ready to stock in a more permanent fashion that you have done homework on.

From my personal experience, I think that the money put into the RBT is a pretty even wash with what you get back. Otherwise what I harvested in trout for meals, is probably close to what it would cost if I went out and bought trout at the grocery store. When I was trying to figure out what to stock originally, I didn't want to buy fish every year. So I was really apprehensive about the RBT. There were other circumstances that swayed me into needing them. Now, I can't wait to do it again. Never thought I would say that, and I have to say thank you PONDBOSS.

I am not pushing for you to go and stock your pond with trout. I am giving this info as only a stocking option. There are MANY other options. Like you said, do your homework, ask questions, never give up learning....it's a journey.

Big question is, what single fish do you like the best?