How big should the fish stocked be?
Fingerling fish (1 to 3 inches) are recommended for the initial stocking of new or rehabilitated ponds. It is essential that no fish life exists in the pond before the initial stocking. The single exception is to stock breeder sized fathead minnows which will create an abundant food supply that will eventually be eliminated by bass. Fathead minnows are available from private fish dealers. Other minnow species can cause problems.