Hey Hunter, I have had HSB in my 1 acre pond now for about 4.5 years now. I originally put 24 in my pond at 6 to 8 inches, I like them so much I went ahead a stocked 22 more this last spring. My originals are now 4 to 5 pounds and fight like a fricken semi truck!! They are a blast and don't eat all your BG as their mouths don't quite get big enough for that. I think they do well with the LMB, as HSB tend to hang in more open water and LMB tend to hang more shallow or around habitat...
I couldn't believe how good tasting they were I was surprised. Just cut the red meat out and they are awesome eating!! They do get a bit hook shy the bigger they get! Try not to catch the big ones in 78 to 80 plus degree water or if you do you might as well keep them. When I say big I'm talking about 3 pounds or bigger they will more than likely die on you..... Only one I know of that could keep them alive and put them back in their pond was the late great George G. He was the man on HSB. Anyway good luck and have fun with them they are a blast if you can get them!!
RC
