Jared, welcome to Pond Boss. What size pond? What size acreage? What other activities? The initial pond thoughts include pond(s) size, runoff area, source of runoff and who controls it, proper soil mixture, NEIGHBORS, etc.

I would probably buy Mike Otto's Book "Just Add Water". It is about the best writing I've seen on pond design, soil considerations, location, etc.

It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP