OMC, I've dealt with this same scenario for 2 years now. Infestation of both GSF, and small LMB, in my brood pond. I visually inspect and confirm all stocked fish, and I still have trespassers after the correct stocking of fish. After the initial shock, I realized it's not a game changer, and just requires a little management time. Luckily, the management time involves fishing and time on the water, and that was probably the initial goal to begin with.
I do not think those LMB came from a stocking, because the body condition just doesn't back that up. If they were 2-3" like most stocked CNBG, then those LMB grew 9" in 6-7 months. Their body shape almost guarantees that didn't happen. If they were much larger than the stocked CNBG, then it would have been very obvious, and Overton's would have resorted prior to delivery. I have absolutely no doubt about that fact.
One question that hasn't been asked, is how was the pond initially filled? And, was there any major rain event that caused a quick water level rise at any point? I've had water go over the spillway, and observed fry moving in as little as 1-2" of water. CNBG and LMB of any size, will follow a current.
This certainly isn't a game changer. You have approximately 4 months before any potential LMB nesting/spawning will occur, so you have plenty of time to correct this issue. Several of the guys on the forum rob nests to eliminate LMB spawns. IIRC, esshup does this, so maybe he can help with the particulars.
The main thing to remember is that ponds are dynamic and trespassers, water problems, aquatic vegetation, etc. are just the nature of the beast. You can get through this just fine.
Best of luck with all of this. Gotta go, the sun's up and it's almost seine time, Al
Last edited by FireIsHot; 12/06/1408:17 AM. Reason: ADHD
