I know experts will say that HSB do not compete for the same food that LMB do. I have seen too many lakes that HSB have been put in that LMB health and numbers decreased. If shad is the main source of food in your lake and LMB and HSB eat them, then yes they are competing for the same food. In my opinion, HSB are eating machines. I have seen huge schools of them just devouring shad. Larger HSB will eat smaller LMB and bluegill. HSB tend to stay in open water but will come in shallow at night to feed. Look at your goals for the fishery and talk to more people that have HSB and LMB in your size of water. HSB are alot of fun to catch....but as a LMB guy, that is about the only good thing I have to say about them...HA !!