Ed,
Neither of the categories of pond managers seems to fit me. What I wanted has evolved from the time I started and continues to evolve today as I learn more and more. Traditional techniques are guidelines only and not rigid rules to be followed. I firmly believe that not everything about pond management has been discovered and/or written about yet. Everyone�s situation is different and yet similar, to an extent. Mistakes can be the best learning tool�expensive and painful, yes, but also of the most value.
Pond Construction: In a perfect world, I would do the construction myself. However, time simply does not support this approach. At a minimum, I advocate a �hands-on� approach to construction in which the pond manager is involved in every decision affecting the eventual shape, size, and contours of the pond.
Types of Fish: Personal choice to a large extent, but many fail to think beyond the standard LMB and BG combination. Tilapia is an example of thinking outside the box to solve pond problems and meet objectives. HSB in many cases is a better choice of predator than LMB. Gizzard shad has a place in certain situations. Serious consideration of Florida strain vs native vs F1 should be taken. Recognition that fishing pressure and �learning� are real factors to be considered and should be used to develop more realistic expectations for our ponds.
Habitat: Again, use the traditional thinking as a guideline only�but think out of the box. Conventional says structure in 4 to 6 feet of water only�that�s BS. Make your deep water productive instead of just being a wasteland of oxygen depravation. Under water �islands� rising up out of the bottom depths is one way to accomplish this.
Chemicals: Not on your list, but an important consideration. Here, less is better, IMHO, and none at all is the ultimate if possible. I include all kinds of non-natural substances in this category, especially fertilizer.
Honestly, there is nothing I wouldn�t do again, mistakes included�it is a journey not a destination. It does not end with a LMB of 10 pounds or whatever; it is continuous until health or death overtakes us. The joy is in the journey, the learning, pushing the boundaries of understanding, not simply raising the biggest fish or building the biggest pond. The joy is what makes it all worthwhile.
Welcome back to the forum and don�t stay away so long next time.
