Hello!

Currently have a pond in our front pasture that is due for renovation. Pond is approximately 1/4 acres at capacity. Watershed is 11acres. Depth is unknown, but in the summer there is 100% coverage of American Lotus so I would assume it is shallow throughout. It did not dry out during this years drought but receded to probably 1/10 acre or so. Only current fish species is GSF.

The goal for this pond is to provide angling opportunities for myself, but more importantly kiddos, that put a variety of food on the table. Have other ponds that are LMB oriented so not interested in putting bass in this pond.

With this in mind, I have thought through the below plan.

1) Deepen pond to depth of 10-12ft throughout. I want it to drop off quickly to minimize growth any lotus seeds or roots that remain in soil post dig. Plants that do sprout, are hopefully minimal and can be treated as needed.
2) Stock pond with 5lbs FHM, 100 RES, 10 CC, 10 HSB.
3) Put and take CC and HSB as they become eating size, restock as needed.

Some further notes and questions:

1) Do I need an additional forage (Bluegill) to maintain my food chain? I know Bluegill rapidly overpopulate so wouldn’t know if the CC and HSB could control them. The pond will be fed inconsistently (property is hunting focused and 2 hours way, so will fill fish feeder when I am there but may go empty periodically).
2) Should I look to add tilapia and rainbow trout as seasonal put and take species? I am not familiar with the stocking rates or impact to the main CC/HSB goal of the pond.
3) I know little about aeration but can aerate the pond if need be. Would take any advice here?
4) May not drain the pond completely to renovate, if so, I am assuming adult GSF would eat the FHM and fingerling CC? I’ve had a 4” GSF hit a 9” plastic salamander so I know those buggers have some attitude.

Thank you!