You need only a predator. For Ohio, Smallmouth Bass would be my choice. The smaller ones are essentially panfish while the larger ones will help to prevent overpopulation. For the health of the pond and the fish, I would institute a harvest of 40 -50 lbs/acre-year beginning the second year. Since your family isn't big on fishing, time the harvest for fall and keep everything until the harvest objective is reached. This should reduce standing weight by 25% to 35% each fall and ensure those SMB remaining can still grow.

Last edited by jpsdad; 06/09/20 10:15 PM.
It isn't what we don't know that gives us trouble, it's what we know that ain't so - Will Rogers