Wow thanks all for the replies. It is isolated from other ponds both catchment and drainage area, dumps into an ephemeral stream only during flood events , mostly minimal runoff. 2 of my smallest are not really being used right now for much, there are a few bluegill but I haven't pursued improving them because within 4 yrs intend to redo them partially.
I like the idea of a mini bowfin hatchery. I'll have to look into that about not having in my swimming ponds though, you are right, the one I caught was 1 oz shy of NY state record and I wouldn't want it to bite me.
Regarding the hybrid stripes, will they live in a pond that small with minimal flow? It's high quality water but not much movement, I thought they had to have huge water only. I would actually be happy with hybrid stripes, they are in my top 4 favorite anyways but had not considered them.
Saugeye might be a good alternative to walleye for sure
If I can't find bowfin and hybrids would work there, I think I would maybe do a hybrid stripe/perch/saugeye combo- that would give me depth, extend season, and I've heard perch go nuts with good structure (which this definitely has). I built many rock caves, sunken logs, brush piles etc prior to it filling . Maybe throw in a couple grass carp and 2 cats just for fun with double typical amount of minnows for first year.
I had considered rainbow/brown trout, but it's waaaay to far from the grid for aerator and I don't go down there much when hay is growing from April to late June because I don't want to trample my hay. Not sure it's worth the effort for them to just burn out
