The hybrid bluegill is produced by combining the male bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) with the female green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus). This process yields high numbers of male fish, leading to less overpopulation than with other bluegill species. The hybrid bluegill will also grow larger reaching 1.5 – 2 pounds. The hybrid’s large mouth combined with its aggressive feeding makes it easy and fun to catch. Bluegills spawn when water temperatures reach 67°F. Shallow, saucer-like nests are made and guarded by the males.

Stocking recommendation: up to 300 per acre

Diet: insects, invertebrates, minnows, food pellets

The channel catfish is distinguishable from other catfish and bullheads by its forked tail and the presence of black spots on its side. They do not muddy a pond like bullheads. Channel catfish will strike bait or lures and are considered excellent eating. They average 2-5 pounds in optimal settings. Spawning will occur when the water temperature reaches 70° F, usually in crevices or burrows under banks and rocks. Typically in a pond setting, catfish need some sort of artificial breeding structure to reproduce successfully.

Stocking recommendation: up to 100 per acre

Diet: algae, insects, fish, and pellets

The largemouth bass is a notable warm water sports fish providing excellent eating. Bass will reproduce in their second or third year and can potentially reach 8-10″ by the second year. In the northeast, bass grow to an average 2-4 pounds. They are voracious predators and this should be taken into consideration when added to a pond’s ecosystem. Spawning begins about mid-May when pond temperatures reach 62-65°F. The male prepares the 1-2 foot circular cleared nest area in about 2 feet of water. One or more females will deposit several thousand eggs and hatching occurs in 8-10 days. The male will guard the fry for about 2 weeks and then will feed on them. About 1 in 1000 will reach adult size in natural conditions.

Stocking recommendation: up to 100 per acre

Diet: insects, invertebrates, other fish, food pellets

Fathead Minnow: Fathead minnows are excellent forage for game fish and a recommended component for balanced ecosystems. Fatheads are preferred over other types of shiners or chubs because they breed in a pond and do not compete with other species. They can be restocked often to ensure proper feed for game fish. These minnows average 1-3 inches in size. Spawning occurs when water temperature reaches 65°F, five or six times during the summer beginning in late May. Flat stones or boards, which can be added around the pond edge, facilitate spawning and provide cover.

Stocking recommendation: up to 50lbs per acre

Diet: algae, invertebrates, & food pellets

The grass carp is one of the largest members of the minnow family. Native to China, grass carp were originally raised for food but are now primarily used for weed control. The grass carp is not a bottom feeder like the local carp species and do not muddy a pond. Only sterile (triploid) grass carp are allowed in our local waters and require a special stocking permit. Fish are federally inspected before being transported and sold. Plant varieties preferred by grass carp grow through the water column. Grass Carp need a separate permit from the other fish. Anyone wanting Grass Carp should fill out the appropriate permit and mail it to the NYS DEC address listed on the permit. It will take a while to get the permit back from DEC, so you should mail the permit application as soon as possible. A copy of the permit must be sent along with your order and payment. The permit from DEC must be brought with you when you come to pick up your fish if you did not send a copy. Grass Carp are non-taxable.

Stocking recommendation: # will be on your permit from NYSDEC

Diet: pond weeds

A 10 lb bag of Zeigler Bros. high-protein floating food for pond fish.

The application of barley straw has received attention as a way to clarify ponds. The decomposition of barley straw bales has shown that it aids in balancing water quality. As it degrades, peroxide is created, which deters further algae growth. Barley straw pellets are natural, easy & clean to apply, and break down quickly.