If you have not done it before, building a raised fish pond is an interesting and rewarding task. It is not always easy, especially if you are beginning. But with the right tools and enough patience, you will be enjoying your garden pond for years to come. It’s usually best to start with something much simpler, such as a small pond, before moving on to larger projects. In the long run, doing it right from the start will save you money and you’ll be able to appreciate your lake or pond for years to come.
A good place to begin building your pond is with garden landscape material such as old wood. Old, untreated lumber is ideal for this project because it is cheap and easy to find. Start by locating the garden spot where you would like to put the pond. Measure the width and length of the area, then add two feet on either side for walkways or deck space. Be sure to leave some room in the middle. Build up the fence posts and the deck around the perimeter, and fill in the soil.
Using recycled timber yard waste products is one way to build a raised garden pond, no matter what material you choose. Look through your landscape junk box to find things you may have already used or that could be used to make a deck or walkway. Recycled lumber yard waste can be salvaged for practically anything, including stairs, benches, ledges and more. You might also consider using other materials found at your home or local yard sale. Painted buckets, old paint cans, broom handles, plastic milk jugs and even window ledges are just a few examples of what can be used.
One of the most important aspects of your landscape pond is the liner system. You have several options available when it comes to lumber yard waste and recycled timber sleepers. The liners are typically made of PVC or Teflon. PVC liners are more durable and can be cleaned easily. It is easier to work with and requires less maintenance, making it a great choice for a raised garden pond.
There are alternatives to PVC liners, however. Some garden ponds utilize smaller, lighter materials such as wood or copper. Wood and copper liners can be more expensive and difficult to work with. If the liner system will be visible outside of the pond, then a liner made from one of these materials is recommended. Liners are not only convenient and inexpensive, but they are safer and can prevent larger debris from harming fish in the water.
Building a raised fish pond is similar to any other project, in that you will need to plan ahead and research different materials. Find out about the local regulations for your water quality, and decide if the pond will require any special treatment. Determine if the location of the pond will allow for any sort of fencing or privacy. Remember to also check with your city to ensure that building a raised fish pond is allowed in your area.
When building a raised fish pond, there is no such thing as too much space or too little. Depending upon your budget and preferences, the pond can be as small as a square foot or as large as three acres. You may even want to create a backbreaking trek for your fish by building an over-sized waterfall or stationing it in a remote area of your garden.
Once you have decided where to put your pond, it is time to choose the fish. The most common types of fish to include are catfish, smallmouth bass, crappie and walleye. These fish tend to eat a lot, especially if you provide them with a variety of live, fresh and dried foods. Although they prefer to stay close to the surface of the water, some species have been known to reside in deeper water such as the depths of a man-made lake. It is important not to place any fish that have special needs in this sensitive area. Your local garden shop should be able to advise you on what fish will best suit your pond.