The ponds around Jacksonville get cold killed every 5-10 years. I would wager you will see tilapia next this spring in the shallows again. unless you are shallow and you got unusually cold. some always seem to survive and keep right in breeding in the spring. Seen it before.
You were certainly right about the survivors. Earlier this spring I saw a 20+ inch Bull tilapia on a bed in the warmest area of the pond & another 10" 20 feet away trying to warm up. I have not seen much since then as the water is very turbid with the rainy weather. The pond averages about 9' with spots in the 12' range. I am now sure, I have a surviving & breeding population.
Thanks everyone for the help.
