the typical stocking rate that i have seen most often quoted is 1000 bluegill per acre with 20% of those being shellcracker. those should be allowed to grow for a year and spawn prior to adding any lmb. then add about 75 lmb per acre. you can also add as amny as 50-100 channel cats per acre if you are going to feed and catch them out. they will compete somewhat with the bass though so many readers here do shy away from adding too many of them. everything i have read says that coppernose will grow faster than common bluegill in your state. both should do very well though. decide what your goals are, and do your homework before stocking. plan on feeding, aerating, fertilizing, culling etc. etc. it's the most enjoyable work you'll ever do. good luck, and most of all enjoy! -jb
