Anyone who grew up spending time around a pond has great memories they could share – the quiet mornings or evenings sitting on the bank or in a canoe waiting for the first strike of the day. For most people, fishing a farm pond is a far more attainable, simpler option than accessing a large lake. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider fishing a farm pond over anything else.
Fond Memories
I’ll never forget the first fish I caught. I also remember the first time I learned not to hook my cousin’s leg when casting a fishing pole. And there was the longboard that jutted out into the pond. It was meant to be used as a fishing seat, but to me, it was a balance beam to practice my backyard gymnastics (which did not sit well with anyone). Every birthday I can remember until the age of 8 was held at the quaint pavilion next to the pond where we would finish the day with swimming and ooey gooey s’mores.
Whether you’re being taught to fish, learning about the wildlife on the pond or simply having a family gathering ponds have the ability to create long-lasting memories that are sure to be carried with you throughout adulthood.
Simplicity
If you’re looking for entertainment in the form of fancy docks, swanky boats or crowds, a pond is not the place for you. Ponds are quiet, serene and simple. You can stand in the water or sit on the bank and appreciate the nature and wildlife surrounding you. Or enjoy the cool breeze that comes through nearby trees, and listen to the tranquil chorus of birds chirping or frogs croaking. And of course, there’s nothing quite like than a rock skipping contest with kids. The strong yet simple connection to nature that ponds offer can be hard to find elsewhere and is difficult to beat.
Creating the perfect habitat
Ponds aren’t just for making family memories, they can also offer an attractive utility. Owning a farm pond will give you the ability to create the perfect fish habitat. The shallow waters of a pond will provide bait fish with a safe place to hide from predators.and for algae, plankton and other inviting food sources to grow and thrive. The deeper waters will provide larger fish with a hunting area, while rocks and tree trunks make for an appealing hideout and living areas. Although having a plethora of plants around a pond is good for the habitat, keep them maintained regularly to prevent overgrowth.
Maintaining a welcoming habitat for fish will give you a great place to cast your line. You will also be able to fill the pond with the types of fish you want. Largemouth bass, bluegill and black crappies are popular fish to breed in ponds. But it’s always best to do your research and find out what species will thrive in your area, especially if you live in a cold climate where the pond will freeze in winter months.
Accessibility
It doesn’t get much better than freshly caught fish on a weeknight. When the pond is readily accessible you can get home from work and head straight out to unwind and catch your dinner. If you’re not fond of cleaning your catch on the kitchen counter, you can add a basic cleaning station next to the pond to avoid all the mess and simplify clean up.
