"If it were my pond project, I'd restrict the CC spawning to 0 if possible."
That is the predominant advice in the literature from the state agencies.
It is also a pretty "idiot-proof" starting point for me. If the pond is working well, without spawning - great. If I want to try some spawning later (instead of re-stocking), then it is easy to add catfish spawning habitat to an existing pond.
"Fungus issues are a water quality/fish health issue. Keep the fish healthy and the water quality good and fungus shouldn't be a problem."
I have read several of the threads about parasites in ponds. Fungus issues were a new one on me. I will have a live creek available for a water supply. I assume some water exchange for the pond is the easiest way to maintain water quality? I am planning to install a bottom drain, so I can pull water off the bottom of the pond as needed.
"If you cut back on the feeding, expect the water to get muddy as the CC start going through the bottom sediment for something to eat."
That is why I believe a separate CC pond is the best solution for our land, let them treat their "own" pond the way they like it!
Thanks,
Rod
