Anyone who has fished the lake this year will agree that the quality of the bass in our lake is sub-par! We had an electro analysis preformed by Southeastern Pond Management, after a member requested a lake evaluation.
The report confirmed that the game fish in the lake (bass, catfish, crappie) are over populated and the forage fish (bluegill, shell cracker, threadfin shad) are under populated. Their recommended management plan suggests we allow forage fish to reproduce in an uninterrupted state!
The Board has agreed that we will suspend the harvest of forage (bluegill, shell cracker, and threadfin shad) until the population increases to an acceptable level. This management plan along with the harvesting of (bass 14 inches or less) and (catfish 14 inches or more) and all crappie, will help the over populated predation of game fish. The management plan for removal of bass suggest 625 lbs per year be removed, regardless of the lakes condition. This harvest rate and all catfish, crappie should be continued every year.
The survey report also suggests the addition of more shallow water cover in the form of brush, trees, and rocks be added so that the forage fish have a chance to grow. We hope to be posting signs of these management changes around the lake, and we ask the members to pass this information along to their guests.
With your help, I hope we can achieve a more balanced, healthier lake within a few years. Happy fishing and see you on the water. — Tim Frey, Lake Committee
Thompson Farm Blog 