Filling 2/3 acre pond after draining and resealing. Would like to get some bluegill started and maybe shiners to build up forage population before stocking LMB or SMB. How long does it take a new pond to produce enough food for the forage fish to survive ? My fear - putting them in - but nothing to eat.

And are there guidlelines for the number of forage fish you can safely stock based on the size of the pond ?

My non-expert opinion would be you can stock fish before the pond fully fills but it should have an algae bloom.

Remember the stocked fish are going to be tiny and not need much food compared to the area they are in. As they grow, so will the food chain.

I stocked my pond in the fall about a month after it started filling when it was about half full. The fish did fine.

Agree with snrub.

Add to what John said. In my drought stricken area stock when I have the best chance of them having water covering their backs. Also when water temps are in the 70 or so degree area. Once summer hits, it's too late.

Thanks guys for the help on this !!