The length of the growing season. The desired market size. The most important of these factors is the size of the pond. Fish should be stocked according to the surface area of the pond. Overestimating the area results in more fish per acre than can he safely grown.
Depth plays no part in determining stocking rates.
Experienced producers can stock up to 6,000 fish per acre, to produce 6,000 pounds per acre per year. Inexperienced producers should stock no more than 3,500 fish per acre. A lower stocking density reduces the risk of losses to oxygen shortages and diseases. In time, a new producer will gain the management experience that allows higher stocking rates. Fingerlings can be stocked at any time during the year.