The reason for this difference was their choice of ponds. This program guide will help you determine whether or not a pond is suitable for fish production. Two ways to grow fish in existing, suitable ponds are described herein. Two methods are Open Pond, in which catfish are stocked loose and Cage Culture, in which catfish are grown in cages. The surface area of your pond is measured in acres.
Most pond shapes are irregular, making it difficult to measure their size.
Overestimating the surface area of a pond is one of the common causes of fish project failures in existing ponds. If you are not confident of your estimate, get someone to help you with your measurements and calculations. In some cases, smaller ponds that receive a continuous water supply from springs or wells may be suitable. Large ponds that are not easily harvested using seines or other conventional methods are good candidates for cage culture. Cage culture projects must have ponds that are at least one surface acre.