FAQ

Who are our clients?

Where do I find pricing?

Prices for our fish vary with the size, seasons, and availability.  We are happy to give you a quote for the fish we offer. Our fingerling fish generally range from 1"- 5" inches and our adult fish can be up to 14" inches (and occasionally larger!) depending on species. Don't hesitate to email us at info@californiapondstockingmanagement.com

Where are we located?

We are located in the greater Sacramento area of California; we offer delivery of fish statewide.

When is the best time of year to stock fish?

Fish can be stocked anytime of the year, in the winter access to ponds and lakes can be limited. If you are interested in stocking fingerling or smaller sizes of fish, reach out to us in the spring to early summer. Our fish grow quickly, these sizes are only available seasonally.

Do we mail fish?

NO- we do not mail or "ship" fish.

Can I pick up fish or fish food?

 No, our facilities are not open to the public. We can deliver fish and/or feed to your location depending on the quantity and distance from our farm. Occasionally, it is possible to arrange for a meet up outside of our facilities for smaller orders.  Contact us and we will see what we can do to help you get our fish and fish feed. 

Is supplementing feed beneficial?

Supplementing feed promotes the overall health and growth of your aquatic ecosystem. Ponds less than one surface acre may not contain enough natural forage for your fish, supplementing feed in this situation is recommended. Also, additional aeration is recommended when feeding your pond less than one acre.

Do we guarantee the fish we sell?

Yes, we guarantee our fish upon delivery. However, if you pick up fish from us we cannot guarantee fish hauled in homemade hauling rigs, garbage cans, etc.  If you have an oxygen problem, improperly apply herbicides or have a situation that adversely affects all the fish in a pond, it is highly likely that it was not the quality of our fish.  Our objective is customer satisfaction! 

Is aeration in my pond or lake necessary?

In general, it is advantageous to aerate a pond or lake that has been stocked with fish.  Several factors enter into the determination of whether or not it is necessary. Give us an email to get our input on aeration for your pond or lake.

Are all fish feeds the same?

Not all fish feeds are the same. Bass and trout require a 40 % or higher protein, fish meal-based diet. Catfish, bluegill and carp can thrive on a vegetable-based protein diet at 28 - 32 %. Keep in mind that if you have bass in your pond the catfish and bluegill will consume the higher protein "bass" feed and excel on that diet. DO NOT, however, feed bass with a lower protein diet than 40%! 

Do we sell fish feed?

YES! We can supply feed to help kickstart your stocking venture. Once you're in need of replenishing try contacting your local feed store to find fish feed near you (be sure to check the protein content). If you are in the Sacramento area, we recommend Sheldon Feed and Supply in Elk Grove.

Do you have Tilapia or Trout?

No, we do NOT have tilapia.  Occasionally we have trout. Remember that trout need water that does not exceed 70 degrees.

Do you have Sacramento Perch or Crappie?

We do not have Sacramento perch or crappie at this time and are unaware of any suppliers. We hope to offer them in the future.

I currently have bass in my pond, but they are not growing, what should I do?

Stocking feeder fish or crayfish to your lake, pond, or reservoir will usually help. Adult feeder fish should survive predation from the bass and reproduce through the spring and summer to provide sufficient forage for the existing bass. It usually takes one season to correct the problem.

I have a predator problem relating to my pond or lake. What should I do?

In California you need to contact California Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Most predatory wildlife species are protected.  Typically, you can get good advice on a legal remedy for your problem with a phone call to the department. Consider these issues before creating a pond that will attract animals that live nearby. Sometimes creating hiding places with structure, vegetation, or creating water depth may alleviate some of your problems.

Is there any literature you recommend?

There are multiple sources of literature regarding lake and pond management. 

Websites:

For aquatic systems and supplies, consider Aquatic Eco-Systems: http://www.aquaticeco.com/

An online magazine dedicated to managing private waters: http://www.pondboss.com/

Publications:

Species Selection for Recreational Fishing in Small Ponds and Lakes Conte, F.S., J.B. Waldvogel, and T.S. Vaught. 2000.

Fish Stocking Strategies for Largemouth Bass in Recreational Ponds and Lakes Conte, F.S., J.B. Waldvogel, and T.S. Vaught. 2000.

Pond Fertilization- Initiating an Algal Bloom Conte, F.S. 2000.

Phytoplankton and Recreational Ponds  Conte, F.S., J.S. Cubbage. 2000.

 Books:

Channel Catfish Farming Handbook by Craig C. Tucker (Author), Edwin H. Robinson (Author).


Do you allow fee fishing at your facilities?

NO- we do not allow fishing at our facilities and are not open to public access unless scheduled by appointment.