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Year 1
As a first step, a thorough assessment of the existing watershed, soil type and yearly rainfall amounts are performed to determine the type and size of lake most suited to the area. Runoff water is also tested to see if lime is needed to raise pH. Next the lake is designed around the structure of the land and based on the preferred type of fish. Additionally we will also determine whether a supplemental aeration system or adding fish concentrating structure would be effective in realizing the landowners goals. At this point an earth-moving contractor is brought in to excavate the pond and make it the appropriate depth and size. By incorporating steeper slopes excessive weed growth can be minimized thereby reducing long-term weed control costs. In some cases an existing well can used in conjunction with rainfall to reduce filling time. Forage fish are stocked well ahead of the game fish to give the forage base time to reproduce. This is also the ideal time to add fish feeder and start a fertilization regime to increase growth rates. As a final step in build a quality fishery the desired gamefish are added.
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Year 2
At the start of the second year, a survey is conducted to determine the health of the fish and at what rate they are growing. The survey enables us to determine the size, species and amount of fish ready to be harvested. By the end of this year of your lake's development, bass can be approaching the 3-5 pound mark and bluegill can be close to one pound. In addition to being the time to resume your fertization program, the spring is also when grass carp are added to control unwanted vegetation in the lake. Supplemental forage such as crawfish, shad or goldfish can be added to supplement the production your lake and add sought after pounds to your bass.
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