How To Build a Farm Pond

Introduction   |   Planning   |    Construction   |   Stocking

Pond Bottom

Many pond sites have trees in the basin, most of which should be cut and salvaged or piled and burned. It is acceptable to leave some trees, bushes, and brush piles. During construction, decide which trees to leave, clear unwanted trees, and develop fish attractors. Such underwater cover provides habitat for certain aquatic organisms fish eat, as well as cover for game fish. Be sure you can find these areas after they are flooded.

Usually 10 to 25 percent of the pond bottom should have some tree cover (fish attractors) where possible. It is important to leave tree cover in the right areas. Leave bushes and trees in deeper water areas, along creek runs, and in the middle of the pond or lake. Leave trees in small clumps. Cut standing trees about 2 feet above the normal water level, and anchor brushy tops to the base of the tall stumps. These stumps will serve as permanent markers to brush top locations and avoid the dangers of falling limbs in later years. Do not leave trees or bushes in shallow areas, narrow coves, or along the bank, because these areas will become difficult to fish and may develop aquatic vegetation problems. Too much cover in shallow water makes it hard for bass to feed on the bream. You should be able to navigate the entire shoreline by boat.

If there are no trees or brush to leave for cover, you can establish fish attractors during pond construction. See the section on Fish Attractors for more detailed information. Prepare the pond bottom during construction because equipment and labor are available then. Use excess earth from construction to make underwater contours, piers, and islands. Most landowners are unwilling to drain the pond later for necessary bottom improvements, so it is important to complete all work during construction.

Lime the pond bottom after all other digging and dirt work are complete. Liming is extremely important. Before flooding, prepare gravel fish spawning beds, and build wooden and/or earthen piers. Plant wheat, rye, millet, or other suitable grasses in the pond bottom to produce lots of aquatic life when the pond is filled and to reduce erosion and siltation.