Photo by gaspar manuel zaldo on Unsplash

There are three primary methods when surveying small pond systems. These are for landowners with small ponds (>2 ac. of surface water), and who want to asses the prevalence and approximate health.

Sine Netting.

• Sine nets require a minimum of three people, one to anchor one end of the net, the next to run the opposite end out until the top line is straight. The last one is needed to hold the net as it is hauled out. Cost: the net’s size typically determines the cost. A 4ft. X 8ft. net costing in the range of $25-$30.

Pros:

• Variable Net sizes. One can, if able, purchase a net to span the with of some small ponds.
• Low chance the fish will escape.

Cons:

• Manpower.
• Not suitable for deep water.

Trap Nets.

• Trap nets can be set and checked by one or two people, depending on the size of the net. Trap nets should be set in mid to late afternoon and checked soon after sunrise.

Pros:

• Fewer by-catches.
• Can be used in deep water.
• Higher Catch Per Unit of Effort.
• Cons:
• Time consuming.

Hook and Line, also called fishing.

• Hook and Line surveys are notorious for their ineffectiveness and Low Catch Per Unit of Effort. However, for most landowners this option may be the one they are most familiar with.

Pros:

• High selectivity.
• low Cost.

Cons:

• Time Consuming.
• Low Catch Per Unit of Effort.

Selectivity:

All nets can be selective based on the size of the mesh. Hook and Line is the most selective, but is the most time consuming.