HSB/CNBG/RES only, no LMB ?
Hi Darryl, since you have posted before in regard to stocking a new pond, I know that you know there is a ton of information in the archives about this subject, but for others following this thread I would like to cite several links :
http://www.pondboss.com/forums/ubbthread...ite_id/1#importhttp://www.pondboss.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=92629#Post92629Understanding your goals of �wanting to have large (5-6 lbs is fine by me) predator type fish that they can catch and release� in your unstocked � acre pond, I will share my experience and attempt to answer some of your questions.
The first problems I recognize with a remote site location are poachers and �helpful� neighbors that may �help� you stock your pond with unwanted species.
Your concern for the potential hook shyness and lack of biting by LMB, plus stunted growth possibilities is well founded.
Your other concern that HSB �make a good fish for 12 ft pond� is a valid concern, but with aeration and high protein fish food, many of us on the forum have been successful in most cases.
Regarding your first stocking question:
�Do yall feel that HSB (75 2-3") stocked at the same time as 500 2-3" CNBG, 100 2-3" RES and 10 lbs FHM would make a "fun" pond for a while, or replace the HSB with 50 Norhtern LMB (more active) and 25 F1 LMB (larger size) in summer 2008�.
With your goals in mind, if this was my pond, which it isn�t, and costs was not a consideration, this fall I would stock the largest HSB, CNBG and RES that are available.
If cost prohibitive or fish not available, I would stock the same fingerling species the following spring, with added FHM and Tilapia for forage and algae control.
I will let others assess the numbers/acre, but sufficient numbers of large HSB will be necessary to control the BG spawn.
LMB can be added later if desired but remember that once in, constant effort is required to control stunted LMB, which may be difficult to achieve with your goal of 5-6 lb fish.
Your other question about predation:
�how do you ever convert from HSB to LMB or LMB to HSB after one of them is established, so that the new fish type does not become the prey?
Adult stockers will be necessary in the future to avoid predation. 4- 6 inch HSB make expensive fish food...
I will ask others to respond to your question:Any thoughts on using golden shiners instead of FHM ?
Good luck and keep us advised of your pond project.
George Glazener
George the first link works try these for the second.http://www.pondboss.com/forums/ubbthread...ite_id/1#importhttp://www.pondboss.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=2194&Number=23822#Post23822 Edited by ewest (08 September, 2007 09:37) _________________________N.E. Texas 2 acre and 1/4 acre pondsOriginal george #173 (22 June 2002)
