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Pond Construction
Select a pond site away from livestock feedlots, farming fields or industrial sites that could expel contaminants into the pond water. Ponds with a minimum eight-foot depth and two-acre surface are optimal for successful channel catfish breeding. To reduce vegetative growth, design the edge of the pond to quickly slope to a depth of three feet. Test for acidity in the pond soil, as high acid content lowers productivity.
Pond Water
Ponds are typically filled by rainwater and water runoff from the surrounding land. If you use water from other sources, such as other ponds, remove unwanted fish. Green pond water, referred to as a bloom, indicates a healthy presence of algae. Stock the pond in spring when the water temperature is below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Channel catfish spawn when water temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Control water level with an overflow system or a drainpipe.
Pond Habitat
Remove all other fish species from the pond. Your goal is to provide adequate food and oxygen for the channel catfish. They do not need competition for food or risk of disease from other species. In addition to commercial feed, channel catfish eat water insects and worms. To reduce the number of snakes in the pond, frequently mow the grass around the pond. Remove tree logs and other objects from the pond. Established algae minimizes water weeds.
Pond Management
Monitor the pond's water color for changes in healthy algae growth. As algae begins to die, brown or dark gray streaks appear in the water. Test pond water quality with inexpensive test kits. They are easy to use and readily available. Do not overstock the pond. Your goal is one thousand channel catfish per each surface acre. To avoid overpopulation, harvest the catfish on a regular basis. Overcrowding leads to disease and poor water quality.