Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

01/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/30/2024 08:48

Sportfish stocking strategies in ponds subject of Feb. 13 webinar

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will host a Feb. 13 webinar focused on diverse stocking strategies for small ponds as well as ponds greater than 1 acre.

The webinar takes place from 6-7:30 p.m., and registration cost is $35. To register, visit https://tx.ag/SportfishStocking.

Diverse stocking strategies and fish species addressed

Todd Sink, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension aquaculture specialist and associate professor in the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management, will be the featured speaker. Sink is also director of the AgriLife Extension Aquatic Diagnostics Laboratory in Bryan-College Station.

Stocking strategies covered include:

  • Four stocking strategies and two variations for ponds smaller than 1 acre in size.
  • Two stocking strategies with several variations for ponds larger than 1 acre in size.

Sink will also provide an understanding of basic genetics for stocking largemouth bass, the advantages and disadvantages of commonly available hybrid species, as well as management strategies for trophy catfish.

"Most importantly, we will cover the correct stocking order," Sink said. "Stocking at the correct time in the correct order is critical to establishing a well-balanced pond that will provide decades of good fishing."

Undesirable fish species that should not be stocked in ponds due to their potential negative effect on the fishery will also be discussed.

A 30-minute Q&A session will conclude the hourlong webinar.

For more information, contact Brittany Chesser, AgriLife Extension aquatic vegetation management program specialist and lead diagnostic scientist at the AgriLife Extension Aquatic Diagnostics Laboratory, at [email protected].

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