Have a new pond filling now, its about 3 1/2 acres an I have about 1/2 an acre or so of pea gravel/planned spawning bed that'll be from 18-36" deep

Total pond depth is 19-20'

rain run off water that feeds the pond comes into this spawning area.

I've noticed already in a cold spring this year that I have algae/moss (I need to learn the technical term for that slime) where the pond is fed in the shallows. I know this area will get sun and plant growth will be a challenge. Can anyone give me any tips on what to plant or put there so I don't have a giant cattail corner?

I'd love lillies or something for fish cover that'd give the smaller fish a safe place and yet allow myself or the kids access with a bobber and a worm for panfish and that kind of deal.

The pond is not quite full into this shallows area, but it will be in the next few weeks.