"So do you think by doubling the BG it will just jump start the the growth on the LMB population? Or is that just getting the forage established for once the LMB start to spawn?"

For southern ponds both and they are related. Studies show that the old 10 to 1 BG/LMB stocking ratios is ok for a time at establishing a balanced population but it only lasts for a short time (3 yrs). Newer studies indicated that 2 to 3 times (20 to 30 to 1) will keep a balanced population longer and aid in early LMB growth. Mgt is still necessary for continued balance and growth.

Assuming you can get good quality BG (male and female) then adding adults to your stocking will advance the process considerably.

The real key is managing the offspring not the original stocked fish.

Last edited by ewest; 07/21/16 03:09 PM.