First post here. I’m putting in a new pond in Central/West Texas next week. It will end up 1/3-1/2 acre in size. I know I have a long time to prepare for eventual stocking, but still want to start thinking about a plan. I know crappie is an undesirable stock for a small pond, but have also read that with HSB, it might be possible. This is my recreational property for hunting, camping and general enjoyment. I don’t live on site, but about 90 miles from it, so I won’t be there constantly. My goal is to have a decent little tank for fishing and the occasional fish fry when camping. Crappie are by far my favorite fish species, for many reasons - table fare, color, challenge etc. If I can’t do crappie, what would be alternative species? I’m not a fan of LMB or catfish.
If you’ll let me indulge in a 2nd (and off topic) question.. I have a choice from my pond builder of round or more rectangular in shape. In will be 8ft in center. What would you choose?