Bass4Life:

No expert here either. I've heard one contractor state $10,000 per acre as a good general rule of thumb. A lot depends upon the site, how busy the contractor is, required time frame, etc. If you have a large natural valley with a good narrow spot for a dam, it will be cheaper than if have to dig it all out or construct a huge dam. If the dirt for the dam can be obtained very near the dam, it will be cheaper. If the contractor has time available between existing jobs so this would help him keep his staff on / cover their wages, it may be cheaper. If it is fairly close to his base of operations (won't have to haul equipment far) it may be cheaper.

FWIW: I will probably wind up having around $30,000 in mine before it is totally finished. I anticipate that it will be around 12 acres.

I think Lakedoctor builds a lot of ponds/lakes in Indiana. I think he is based in the Greencastle area near Indianapolis. He used to hang out here some and has given me advice on constructing / stocking / etc. mine via three phone calls with the latest in December or so.

I'd recommend that you really read through this site, order some books, videos, etc. Talk you to your local NCRS (conservation) office. Talk to a bunch of contractors. Etc. Do lots of planning in advance and get expert advice if you can.

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