Pond expansion ?

[GerardC]

We're going to be adding on to our rather small existing pond. We have to build an L shape that would be sized about 150'x 190'x (50' wide or so), and the wife has mentioned that she would like to get some fish. I was once told that depth has a lot to do with having fish survive due to our winters. So my question is, "How deep should it be in order for the fish to survive through our NE winters?" I'd hate to see them floating come spring time.

I'd also appreciate it if those of you that have ponds could post photos of how/what you've done with them, i.e. docks, islands, shoreline landscaping etc. so we can get some ideas. We plan on getting a little row boat to float around in to try and capture that getaway feeling /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. Thanks in advance. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[CajunRider]

Try this link.
Monroe County NY Fish Pond Information

 

[cmhyland]

Gerard,

Some of the depth question is related to the kind of fish you want.

Trout require water to be cold/cool.... is this spring fed? They will not reproduce without
moving water. Browns and rainbows are the heartyest. Thay can survive water into the low 70's.

Far better if it doesn't get above 65.

Bass and perch and sunfish will handle warmer water so the depths don't have to be quite as deep.

So if you want trout I'd say you'll need 18 to 20 feet of depth to keep the water cold, you'll also have to airate it...
My friend uses a oilless compressor and pulverised rubber soakerhose weighted down.

If you want bass and such 12 feet should be deep enough for the fish to winter through.

Trout you will have to feed.... Purina troutchow... Don't laugh it's real stuff...

Weed control will be your biggest issue. There is a great book out called earth ponds.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0881501557/104-6968914-2233526?v=glance

I have it and it is quite good.

Regards,
Chris

 

[kensfarm]

My parents just sent me this picture from fishing at their farm pond the other day.. pretty nice.. 22 inch bass. He put it back in.. to catch another day.

We had added an extension to raise the height of the existing overflow tube.. it's amazing how fast your hands go numb in freezing water.

 

[GerardC]

Thanks for the information and the links guys.
The existing pond is spring fed and once enlarged it will also have run-off water at the opposite end. Guess we have some reading/research to do so we'll know the best way to construct it.