Pond Boss Forums STOCKING A NEW POND Types of fish to choose Better control of bluegill question

Do hybrid white/striped bass or largemouth bass provide better control of overpopulated bluegill populations in small lakes or ponds?

Thanks

Gambusia,
I'm not a pro, but I would think because of mouth gape size that the LMB would be a predator that would be able to clean up a wider size range of BG. The advantage of the hybrid might be lack of a population explosion by the predator species, as LMB can and will overpopulate if not managed. But, then I have no idea what your goals are for your BOW.

I agree, but then in time unless harvested and removed, the LMB will become a problem themselves.

With using HSB, you won't have that problem. You can overstock their numbers, and once the young BG are whittled down, you can pellet feed the HSB, or remove "X" number of fish. You have no overpopulation worries due to natural reproduction like you do with LMB.

We have at least one NC/Vir reported HSB spawn.

HSB are not real proficient at BG management but they will eat some BG.

LMB can control BG but can themselves become over populated.

ewest, I'd love to hear about the 2nd instance. I remember the first instance you are talking about and I think it was in VA. At least that is where the business is located.

Lake is there also but not sure if NC or Vir.

SW Vir. Question how similar to Op’s location and circumstances.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVaRcE5qJh0

Here is another copy and paste https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=lo1HAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Wn8MAAAAIBAJ&pg=4597%2C4057826

Thanks for the replies.

Could you stock both then?

Gam, I am no expert, just another pond owner and so I would say you can stock both. But like essup said, you have to harvest some of the LMB or they will take over the pond. Or at least that is what I understand. I do have both HSB and LMB in my pond.

Tracy

In this case it is a small lake loaded with bluegills.

Yes you can stock both HSB and LMB. Suggest you start with low numbers and work forward watching results. HSB will eat BG but not control them alone in normal numbers. Having some additional forage for the HSB would help or feeding pellets.
LMB/BG ponds tend to go bass or BG crowded ,one ore the other . Balance is the abnormal state .