Hey Folks!
Thank you for all the well thought out replies!
I appreciate yall more than you know.
Short version, I reached out to Clemson University and also SC DNR.
Both were unanimous in a BG/RES and LMB stocking as the most predictable process with the best chance of success.
I accept that there is a DUMB tax (have paid it all too often) and want to avoid that now.
Many (maybe most!) of the PondBoss folks are on an upper plane and I am just a dumb old man. You guys are amazing with your knowledge and the work you are willing to add to your pond project! I stand in awe!
Working to get some pics uploaded and I look forward to (hopefully) more help and suggestions in the future.
Thank you!