I understand the concept of carrying capacity. I also realize that there are many diffrent species of fish becasue each one occupies a diffrent niche. I also know that Bgill are not benthic feeders (bottom feeders) and therefore do not utilize that part of the pond. My idea is that by diversifying my forage base I A. Will have prey fish spawning at diffrent times of the year, providing fry for young bass year round. B. If one population becomes scarce the bass will switch to the other forage (optimum foraging theroy) C. Take some of the pressure of the Bgill population so that we can harvest more. D. Utilize all the diffrent pond habitats to thier fullest to get the most fish out of my ponds. D. If the pond ended up over populating on a bait fish that we add, the bait fish might be able to be traped and for a profit.
I know that the best way to get big bass of big Bgill is to stock Bgill and LMB, feed, fertalize, and manage for one or the other. I'd rather have a pond that is self sustaining, I know impossible, but in that case diversity acts as a safety net. Lets say the first Bgill spawn gets disrupted by a freak accident, low water cool temps, and the eggs don't hatch. You might take comfort in having a plan B.
