I'm thinking of using the concept you posted that worked for deer in my pond by thinning out some small/medium trees on my farm. Then using the small/medium branches bundled together beside the BG beds. I would think this would accomplish the goal of making it immediately popular for the new fry this spring and provide the cover they need to grow to be a significant forage source for LMB.
I want to get the most benefit out of my work so thinking hardwoods would be the best. What do you and the experts think? Construction ideas would be appreciated.
I think the hardwoods would last longer, and I think osage orange/hedge apple would be your best bet if you need to clear or thin any of those trees.
However, one of the experts on the forum (can't remember who) said to not worry much about your woody cover degrading over time. He said that the fish will use it for different purposes over its "life cycle" in the pond. For example, if it is really brushy next spring, then your small BG and Golden Shiners, etc. will use the dense cover. Later when it degrades to just a few main branches, your bass will use it as ambush cover. Hopefully, by that time, you will have put in some newer cover again for the smaller fish.
