None of my direct pond managing experience has involved using feeders; it's all been hand feeding. The fish do gather up when they hear my mule pull up and then they follow me to the feed spot, totally conditioned.
Now, I have fished Richmond Mills Lake, and like you said, it's shark-fest before the feeders go off. Violent.
I'm feeding three sizes of feed all from Optimal. Bluegill which are multi-shaped, Bass, and Hand Throw. I've also got some starter that I need to incorporate, so that'll be four sizes of feed.
Regardless of your feed brand, I think using the different sizes become important to get feed to the right mouths.
