I would recommend Conibears 1st. ricochet off of water is unpredictable and you can't be there 24-7. I say this without knowledge of , your pond ,Children, pets, etc. As powerful as a Conibear is , all safety concerns must be addressed . If not a trapper, you might consider hiring a trapper. Water and rifles concern me personally, My ponds , the rule is shotguns or pistols with "Rat Shot" only . Yes, I'm afraid it may become an ongoing problem and in interest of full disclosure , I have , when I felt conditions were safe , used my Ruger 10/22 from time to time. But much less and less. Much of my pond is in a "Box Canyon" , helping to contain flying lead. Don't forget to consider your local furbearing and other laws ..... It's a multifaceted and difficult question , be safe. Preceding , just my opinion and I hope worth the $.02 . You'll have to weigh the all the facets , and decide how to handle, your the only one on site.
