Set up a dedicated fry pond
Set up a dedicated fry pond: a 1.4 m-high pond at 1.3 m water depth suits large fish, but most species grow best at about 60 cm water depth in the fry stage — using the adult pond for fry wastes capacity.
Drainage and water level
Use two drainage holes: a floor drain in the middle and an overflow drain next to the water inlet, about 20 cm away, for easy level control. Keep water level around 60 cm for fry and up to about 1.3 m for larger fish, which like the depth for hiding.
Before first stocking
Drain, spread quicklime evenly to disinfect, then add a little organic fertilizer after filling.
Ongoing care
Outdoor ponds benefit from a sunshade; change water regularly and install an aerator to maintain dissolved oxygen.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What water depth should a canvas fry pond run at? A: About 60 cm for fry. Larger fish can go up to about 1.3 m, which is the depth a 1.4 m-high pond gives when filled to 1.3 m.
Q: Why not raise fry in the adult pond? A: Most species grow best at about 60 cm in the fry stage, so using the adult pond for fry wastes its capacity.
Q: Why use two drainage holes? A: A floor drain in the middle and an overflow drain next to the water inlet, about 20 cm away. The pair makes the water level easy to control.
Q: How is a canvas pond prepared before the first stocking? A: Drain it, spread quicklime evenly to disinfect, then add a little organic fertilizer after filling.
Q: Does an outdoor canvas pond need shade and aeration? A: A sunshade helps. Change the water regularly, and install an aerator to maintain dissolved oxygen.
