ML :

I share your concern about getting bad fish. Not just stunted but either not what you asked for or bad genes from bad brood fish. I know Bob , Bruce and Overton are right about good reputable fish farms. I am not talking about those but remember Bob's DFW report on the free fish adds and the guy behind them. Those type folks are out there. My approach on this is like Bill Cody's on sorting and sexing his fish , he is going to double check before anything gets put in the pond. I am going to be sure that I know and trust the seller and know exactly who grew the fish and where and talk to them. I want the seller to have grown the fish . I want written confirmation on what I ordered and what they deliver and I want to see and examine the fish before they go in and I take pics. If I am buying adult fish I want their life history . I have heard of adult bass being shocked out of a stunted pond and being resold to unsuspecting buyers. The buyers did not know that those 12 in one pound bass were 5 years old. It only takes one time to set you back years on your pond plan. Not for me . ewest