Having a pond can be not only aesthetically pleasing but also benefit your family’s eating needs as well. Having a pond that simulates as a habitat for cold water species of fish such as trout can provide a healthy dinner for an entire family. It can also serve as a leisure activity for fisherman that can’t get out on the waters as often as they would like.
Type of Trout and Their Season Trout such as Brook, Brown and Rainbow are kept in cool waters and are typically stocked in the springtime. However, stocking trout in the fall can allow the fish to assimilate to their new habitat all winter long. This way the trout are active and ready for a full summer. Brook trout need to be kept in cold waters between 45 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit and are known to be easy to fish for catch and release purposes. Rainbow trout are common for purchase. They are also more tolerant of higher temperatures and can stand warmer temperatures 55 to 65 degrees F. Brown trout stand similar water temperatures at 60 to 65 degrees F, but are known to eat other trout and their own kind. They live the longest of any trout from five to seven years old. They, however, are the hardest to fish for and not easily caught. Exclusive Species When determining on owning a cold water fish pond such as trout or bass, it is recommended you do not mix species of cold and warm water fish. Controlling the temperature would become difficult and troublesome over time. Also it is recommended to stick with mostly the same species of fish. Different type of trout can become competitive and eat smaller trout. For example, brown trout are known to eat other trout that are half their size. Keeping your fish properly fed and having an abundance of plant life will diminish fish eating one another. Maintaining Your Trout Pond Trout also need running water or water flow to maintain a natural lifestyle. There also needs to be depth in your pond to ensure oxygen can get deep enough if you live in an area where ice may form in the winter. Proper Pond Aerator will assure adequate oxygen. This company offers numerous systems that are safe for the environment and easy on electrical costs. This company also offers other supplies such as fish cages that allow you to determine if your trout are growing properly and surviving in your pond. Other aspects of maintaining your trout pond properly include maintaining a pH level from 6.5 to 8.5. Feeding trout a high protein feed is also important to maintain their reproductive levels. Adding a trout pond to your landscape can be quite beneficial for a family or an adamant fisherman. They can be simple to maintain with the right supplies and upkeep with water quality measurements. Trout ponds can also be a home to an abundance of wildlife including birds. They can be pleasing for the eye and their natural plant and animal life will help eliminate bug populations. Adding trout to your cold water pond is a beneficial aspect to your love of wildlife and nature and will benefit you and your family in many ways.