Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Aeration question

I have a 3/4 acre pond in southeast Texas; pear shaped; 12' deep at the dam, rising to 4' in the narrow/shallow end. I get inflow only in heavy rains because of insufficient watershed; water levels drop dramatically throughout the summer. I have heavy infestations of filamentous algae throughout most of the year. Two questions: To control the algae, should I first try aeration or bacteria? If I go with aeration, what kind of system? I would prefer an aeration system that also provides aesthetics. Last summer an issue of Pond Boss seemed to favor an aerating fountain for my situation. I've contacted some of the Pond Boss advertisers. One recommends a diffuser system as his first choice, with a bottom draw system as his second choice--focusing on maximizing oxygenation. The other recommends an aerating fountain because it will create more water movement, which they think will better discourage algae, plus they point out that the thermocline isn't really a problem in south texas. Thoughts? If I chose between the bottom draw and the fountain aerator, which would be better?

Use both bacteria and an aerator. If fish production is a goal, use the bottom diffuser type aerator. If fish production isn't important, and you are interested in esthetic appeal, consider a fountain.
Several Pond Boss advertisers sell the systems at fair prices.

Thanks, Bob. Lots of contradictory views on this. Some folks I've corresponded with on the PB site say aeration is good for mixing layers but won't solve algae, some say try aeration before paying the high price of bacteria, etc. I guess diverse views are one of the things that make the site interesting.

Looking forward to seeing you in Brenham again soon.