Prolific is certainly right in warmer weather ponds.

James, the "average" Texas pond is what we call bass heavy. The catch and release and too small to keep mantras have gotten those ponds out of balance when you figure the predator/prey ratio. Add to that the tendency for fish to become hook shy. In essence, we wind up loving our bass to the point that they lose weight and body condition.

I've recommended that pond owners eliminate small bass but really concentrate on the forage base, environment and water quality. Too many bass eliminate small bluegills and other forage/prey to the point where they never get large enough to feed mid size and larger predators.

Just keep culling bass and raising BG.

It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa