Pond shape does not matter as much as depth, soil, cover added and stocking.

Read as much as you can of the posts here to learn. Order pondboss magazine, order the pondboss books. The more you learn the better pond you will have.

Your plans to stock have some problems. Do NOT stock perch. Unless you are referring to bluegill. Also consider redears. They eat snails and you don't want snails because they lead to parasites in your fish. Stock forage fish, bluegill, redear, and fathead minnows first. Give them a year or so to multiply without predators. THen add your catfish and bass. That way, they will have plenty to feed on.

Nick Smith