Originally Posted by Learninboutfish
It sounds like you co-own the lake. Hopefully the other owners become enthusiastic like you about improving the fishery.

I'm not an expert, but I'm sure you'll get some great suggestions from the more experienced folks here.

There are a couple of ways I can think of to figure out what species are present and estimate their populations. The most effective method I know is electrofishing. A local pond management company quoted me $1500 for my 2 acre pond. It also should include recommendations for everything you've asked questions about and more.

Another way is to sample by fishing, using nets and traps, (which it sounds like you have used) then weighing and measuring each gamefish species. You can compare them to the standard weight charts to get an idea. If you're interested, send me a private message with your email address, and I can share a copy of the relative weight Excel sheet.

There's also a good resource guide you'll get with your subscription, and there are some available on the site. Plus, you can always Google pond management companies to find one near you.

Good luck,

Great Pictures
Bill S.


Thanks for the suggestion about sampling. It's gotten me thinking now. I'll PM you as you suggested.