What are your goals for the place?
As for the property, I'll build a log home on a flat area that is up a slight rise that overlooks the pond, cut trails for the grandkids to ride 4 wheelers, UTVs, etc., food plots to enjoy the wildlife.
As far as the pond goes, I'll have it e-shocked to see where I'm at. My main goals is aesthetics first. Maybe put a log gazebo that matches the log home near the pond. Growing huge trophy bass isn't as important to me as being able for family and friends to be able to wet a line and pull in something. I'm leaning towards large BGs with a few bass, so that the bass that are in there will have an overabundance of forage. Definitely want to have a quality feeder (TH) for the BGs. Perhaps feed trained FL strain will find a way into the pond.
I understand what you guys are saying about start now on the pond so it'll be in top shape upon my return, but for me, I'm in no rush. Most of the enjoyment to a quality pond is the journey getting it there, not just the end result.
