After reading Mr.Lusk’s “Managing the Mini Pond” in the current issue of PB magazine, it made an alarming analogy to our pond, even though our pond is larger..!
Quote:
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"Manage the small pond, or it will manage itself....and you won't like how nature does it."…..
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Our four year old, 2 acre pond in N.E. Texas had an explosion of bushy pond weed this spring, and a minimum stocking of four grass carp made no headway.
The minimum stocking of tilapia did nothing to the algae, which was primarily embedded in substrate of pondweed.
We fertilized the first year.
We have fed heavy with high protein fish food.
We overstocked CC and they are a problem.
We stocked LMB that are lure shy and hard to catch.
Our pets were CNBG – ranging from 1 inch to 10+ inches and have been fun to watch, catch and release.
Lusk’s article stressed “harvesting” the crop and heading off problems before they get a head start.
We have solved the heavy nutrient load by NO additional fertilization – NEVER AGAIN…!
We solved the pondweed by adding 10 additional GC in late June heat wave, even though “conventional wisdom” says you cannot do this. (Just ask Todd Overton – he can put them to sleep and transfer without a problem – except economics – too expensive unless large orders – I was lucky to have a neighbor with a HUGE order)
Today the pondweed is about gone and the tilapia has the algae almost under control.
I have learned what works for me:
1. Consult with knowledgeable professional fisheries biologists.
2. Exchange ideas and experience with peers.
3. Make decisions based on my own knowledge and experience, goals for pond, and the amount of risk that I want to take.
This morning I harvested 20 BG between the sizes of 6 to 8 inches – releasing all smaller and larger. Caught about 40 in 50 casts with a 5wt fly rod and pellet flies – YEAH – in front of the feeder – I don't have a problem with that………
What a blast – cool morning – beautiful sunrise.
Tonight we are eating our pets.
George Glazener
N.E. Texas ¼ acre and 2 acre ponds.
