Individual operators will have to determine the best replacement pro-gram for a particular facility. More frequent replacement requires con-siderable time for scheduling and more meticulous record keeping. The most efficient and profitable fee fishing operations are those that move the maximum pounds of fish in the minimum time with the least obligation of limited resources. Frequent replacement in a relatively small pond containing a moderate density of fish has the potential of the most return on investment. Channel catfish in fee fishing ponds usually are fed only a maintenance diet.
Few operators attempt to promote fish growth in the pond.
Fish are fed 1 to 2 percent of the estimated weight of fish in the pond, two or three times per week. A commercial catfish ration is usually fed. Marketing other species Other fish such as rainbow trout or hybrid striped bass are marketed through fee fishing facilities. Rainbow trout require an abundant supply of high quality cool water. Trout fee fishing operations generally are limited to locations at which summer water temperatures do not exceed 70 F. General operating procedures at trout fee fishing facilities are similar to those described for catfish.