From my reading and what I have seen on many sites somewhere around a 5-1 BG/RES rate. So if you get 500 BG get 100 RES. Really whatever you want on that. I think they are mainly there for diversity. I'm just now learning about the RES. I have read they are hard to catch, which maybe one reason most drop them so much lower than the BG.

I think they grow close to the same rate but get bigger from what I have seen. I have read they are not as easy to feed train...but there are some on the site, one with a video that shows their RES chowing on some Optimal.

Could you stock sooner than that? How far south in LA are you? I'm in SW Arkansas. Stocking in Oct you might not get a BG spawn. From what I found out yesterday from the experts here, they can spawn within 30 days...but in OCT that would put you in NOV. Maybe if you wait until May or June to stock the LMB you would get a spawn or two under your belt. I think the spawn is the major factor before adding the predators.

You have some pics?? Would love to see the pond!