Pond Boss Forums Thread Like Summary - Inherited Pond

I recently purchased a property in Kentucky. It has a small (1/8 acre)? pond on it. Last year I used non-toxic herbicides to reduce (kill) the abundance of cattails, algea and weeds. Pond looks better and is generally clear to 2ft. Actual depth is not known but I estimate 6-8ft. Water quality is good (tested this fall) and I know I have a snapping turtle, frogs and mudbugs.

There is zero minnow or fish activity on the shores and I do not see top water activity.

This winter I did verify (with worm and hook) that I have some Green Sunfish. I have caught 3 (within 30 min) all were 2-3" long.

Question I have is why were all three small and was it the same one over and over again (different parts of the pond).

Since it came with the property I have no idea what else is in there and do not want to stock an already stocked pond.

Previous owner left it to its own devices for last 5-8 yrs..not sure if it was ever stocked. It is fed by watershed (not creek fed).

Any help or advice would be appreciated.

This is my first pond that actually holds water year-round.

Don't need trophy fish, just something to keep me occupied a few days a month.

Your second post greatly clarifies the parameters for the level of effort you want, and the results you want for your pond.

If you go the 'bucket' stocking method (catching fish elsewhere and bringing them to your pond), a general rule is that river or stream fish don't do as well in non-running water bodies (and vice versa although most don't take fish from a pond and put them in a river). So, your best case would be to catch fish from another pond, or lake.

With bucket stocking, there is always a risk of transporting other organisms into your pond that tagged along with the fish. There are some ways to mitigate that.

Also, make sure that it's legal, as some states have specific rules for the same (for me, I would just be careful, and not obvious about it).

Regarding feed, you don't have to have a automatic feeder to get the benefits/enjoyment out of it. If just walking to the pond is enjoyable now, it will be even better if you throw a cup of feed out and observe the action.

All good times!!