Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Fishing 2013

BG condition probably a topic for another post elsewhere. Suffice it to say, BG population management is an obvious part of the issue - as it is for any SMB/BG fisheries - we all know that. However, with approx 200 HSB, 100 WE, 200 SMB, 100 HBCP and 300+ YP in a 2 acre pond, I'm not looking at predator density issues. In addition, I'm harvesting at least 2000 BG annually, which is an all time high. I reported earlier in 2013 the BG population has been impacted through increased predation through noticable differences in the visible population - I just dont see the numbers around the dock I used to, nor do I catch nearly as many as in the past either through angling or with cast nets or traps. BG population will always be a management issue in a SMB fishery - but it's not that simple.

Still, for some reason, despite lower populations, these fish are under nourished - a problem I didn't have when my population was significantly higher a year or two ago. It's clear these fish aren't deriving enough benefit from pellet program. However, I'm hesitant to pump more nutrients into the fishery just to improve the BG condition - not worth it. I have a .4 ac pond dedicated to trophy MBG and FYP and can get my fix there. I think I'll let the BG go and see the impact my WE have when they hit 18-20", and more SMB reach the 18" range. Those gapes should allow for predation of 4-5" BG, and that should improve the overall quality of the BG. If not, I'll have a rare predator heavy/prey heavy fishery and let it go.