Welcome Tim,

You will certainly get lots of good info here. You should also consider watching the Pond Boss' Facebook podcast on Wednesday nights at 6:30 CST. Look up Pond Boss on Facebook - he will answer any questions you have. Live, free advise from the pros, it don't get any better than that.

You should first decide what the goal for your pond is going to be. Do you want to have good all around fishing with average sized fish? Or would you rather have fewer fish with a higher percentage of above average sizes? Or an abundance of smaller fish with high catch rates - great for kids. None of those options are exclusive and you can have a big fish in an overcrowded pond, its just not as likely. Also determine what type of fish you want to grow. Example - Do you want trophy bass or bream? The plan to grow big bass is a different than for big bream.

What part of Florida are you located? I'm planning a trip with my family to the Everglades/Miami area for oscar and peacock bass fishing this summer. That brings to mind the question if anyone in S. Florida has ever stocked a pond with oscar? I read they need water temp above 68 so only S. Florida could support them.

Anyway, good luck with your pond and welcome to the forum!