Pond water also is more likely to have harmful fish pathogens than well or spring water. Clear pond water without a heavy algae bloom can be used for short trips. Special care is needed when any surface water is used to make sure that no harmful contaminants are present. One critical factor to the successful handling and transport of fish is that fish be healthy and in good condition before they are hauled. Another important con-sideration is the variability of tolerance to loading and transport stress among species.
Some species are very hardy while others require special precautions.
With so many vari-ables important in transporting fish, it is imperative that the hauler is knowledgeable about acceptable loading rates for the specific conditions. Start with a safe loading rate, and increase later based on experience and results. The hauling unit should be compatible with its intended use. Water is heavy-one gallon weighs 8.3 pounds. Some units are attached to the frames or flatbed of trucks.