The expected volume of sales has to justify high labor costs. Some operators charge only an entrance fee and customers are al-lowed an unlimited catch. This option involves less labor, but managing the fish population is difficult without detailed knowledge of what is being taken out of the pond. A combination of entrance fee and per weight charge beyond a specified poundage is another option. Fee fishing ponds are usually operated seasonally.
Most operations are open daily from early morning until dark during spring, summer, and fall.
Many operators reduce hours or days of operation during colder months. Hours should be specific and clearly stated on signs and in advertisements, and posted in a conspicuous location at the facility. Family operations Pay lake operations tend to be family operated and provide supplemental rather than primary income. Many pay lakes are part of diversified farm operations. Few pay lake operators have formal training in aquiculture or business.