ewest,

I wasn't really thinking of a state-sponsored program. I was thinking of the "big numbers" route, like chicken ranchers use.

With lepomis being such prolific breeders, the young could be sorted monthly, right up to full growth. Any that stand out for any reason would be separated, and added to newer and newer breeding populations. It seems that it wouldn't take very long to have a populaiton of super fish. The sheer numbers of offspring greatly accelerate that process. When you deal with millions of eggs, you're bound to get a few super fish to beef up the population. Endlessly catching and sorting fish sounds too work-intensive for me. I was hoping you would do it while I cheer you on! \:\)

Shrimp