Texas Farm Ponds: Stocking, Assessment, and Management Recommendation

Abstract

Most farm ponds and small impoundments in Texas are not managed at their highest potential for fish production. This is unfortunate, since an estimated 20 percent of fishing trips in Texas are to these waters. This publication presents a concise set of guidelines for stocking and managing fish in new, renovated, or old ponds. This publication was prepared by the Texas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society to provide information to the pond owner who has little or no knowledge of fishery management. Specific information on assessment techniques, interpretation of assessment data, and corrective management strategies are included to help the pond owner develop long-range management plans. This information is intended primarily for ponds less than 5 acres in surface area, but may be useful for larger impoundments as well; however, you should discuss the management of these larger bodies of water and/or unusual management problems with a qualified fisheries biologist. Stocking and management advice is available from various state and federal agencies, universities, private consultants, and fish farmers.

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