Pond FAQs - Fish

Answers to common questions related to Ponds

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    Fish

How many fish can I put in my pond?
How soon can I add fish to my pond?
At what temperature should I stop feeding my fish?
Will raccoons eat my fish?
What other predators will eat my fish?

<> How many fish can I put in my pond?

Try to restrict fish quantities to a maximum of one 5-inch fish for every 5 square feet of surface area. For example, a 10 ft x 10 ft pond could support about 20 five-inch fish or 10 ten-inch fish.

<> How soon can I add fish to my pond?

Operating the filter system for at least three days, up to a week, will allow the chlorine to dissipate through the waterfalls. If you are too anxious and simply cannot wait that long, use a dechlorinator to remove the chlorine from the water.

<> At what temperature should I stop feeding my fish?

Once the water temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, stop feeding your fish. During this time of year, your fish will become dormant. Their respiration, metabolism, and overall activity slows down as they prepare for their winter hibernation. Feeding your fish this cooler time of the year can cause your fish to become sick or even die.

<> Will raccoons eat my fish?

As long as your pond is at least 2 feet deep and 8 feet wide with hiding places for the fish, they should be safe from raccoons.

<> What other predators will eat my fish?

Generally only herons will eat your fish. The best way to deter herons is to purchase a scarecrow or yard cop. This is a sprinkler that is hooked up to a motion sensor and shoots several blasts of water when the predator approaches the pond. Also a flat piece of stone can be placed in between the ledges in the pond for the fish to hide under.