I've got a very young pond. There is already a growing number of floating algae clumps floating on the surface. I'm considering buying a net or a rake to remove most of the algae.

The pond is unstocked currently and has no aeration. However, in the coming year I plan on stocking and aerating.

My question is, should I go with just your garden variety surface net, or go for the more expensive rake? I'm thinking that all I really need to get me up to the point of stocking and aerating is a cheap net.

Do any of you find that with an aeration system and the right kind of algae eating fish you still need the $100 rake?

0.6 acre pond / 13' max depth / Bonham, TX