Establishes A Self-Sustaining Forage Base
Establishing a self-sustaining forage base should be a primary goal of any successful fisheries management plan. Fisheries managers often recommend supplement fish feeding to accomplish this goal. Using automatic feeders filled with pellet feed is an ideal method for feeding many species of forage fish. The additional food source will give your baitfish the needed edge to improve survival and reproductive success, while also providing your pond with the needed food to support a much greater biomass of forage fish.
What are the benefits of supplemental feeding?
Expert Vic DiCenzo, PhD, explains.
Additional Benefits of Supplemental Fish Feeding
Supplemental fish feeding benefits predator fish as well. Bass and trout species thrive on artificial feed; therefore, the option of feeding should be considered when managing for these species. One of the most significant advantages to fish feeding is the front row seat you will have when managing your fishery. The ability to observe fish growing over the years up close is of great benefit. Feeders also provide a great fishing hole for kids and a quick place to catch a meal if desired.
Feed Options
Pellet feed is also less expensive than stocking forage fish, which reduces costs associated with creating and maintaining a healthy fish community. In times of reduced budgets, feeding rates can be reduced, but a reasonable amount of pellet fish food can still be affordable, allowing you to maintain your supplemental fish feeding program and preserve a healthy fish community. Feeders are an investment and can save owners a great deal of money over their five to ten year lifespan.
When looking at pellet feed, SOLitude recommends Optimal Junior Low-Phosphorus Fish Feed. We are proud to be the only vendor to sell this exclusive feed. Optimal customizes your feed to meet the needs of your fish and waterbody. The protein-packed fish food provides the ideal nutrients for your fishery without adding the excess phosphorus into your water column. Not only is this feed nutritious but it also tastes good, making your fish come back for more every time the feeder goes off.
Fish Feeders In Your Management Plan
Fish feeders are reliable systems that have proven their quality over the years. Artificial feed is known to have a 2:1 conversion ratio, so for every 2 pounds of feed you grow 1 pound of fish. Stocking forage fish may have its benefits, but the conversion ratios are oftentimes only 10:1.
To set up a management plan that will have low annual costs to keep your fishery going, fish feeders should most likely be incorporated.
Need help choosing the supplemental fish feeding system that’s right for your property? Ask the fisheries management experts at SOLitude.
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Texas Hunter Feeders
