I must disagree with fishman. And I am an expert, having read both of Pondboss's books and reading the magazine (that was a joke folks).
Now, here is what pondboss does recommend. First, it the two ponds that are empty, (supposedly, if they have been in existence very long, there are fish in them) stock with some bluegill and fathead minnows. Leave these forage fish alone in the lake for about a year. Let them multiply. THEN stock the predators of your choice, bass, catfish or both. The predators will grow much faster when stocked into an established forage base.
Do research on installing structure for the bass, might as well make it a great fishing lake if you got it. Also, add some redear to keep out the snails. Add them in the first year too.
Now for the established pond, seine it to see what lies therein. Fish it to see what you catch. You will have to stock it or not stock it depending on the results of your survey. If it has bass, and they are skinny, forage is needed. If it has brim, only, it is time for bass...
You might seine the other two ponds first in order to see if there is anything in them. Just to be sure.
