As fisheries biologists, one of the most important recommendations we make to pond and lake owners is to stock forage fish in early spring. While stocking forage fish at any time of year can provide benefits, early spring stocking offers the greatest...
Eutrophication is often described as the aging process of a pond or lake. Over time, organic material and nutrients accumulate, forming a thick layer of black sludge—or muck—along the pond bottom. This buildup comes from leaves, grass clippings, dead...
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of catching your own fish, preparing it with care, and serving up a delicious, golden-fried meal. The Jones family has been perfecting this fish fry breading for generations, creating a blend that brings ou...
Stocking a pond or lake with the right mix of fish species is critical to creating a thriving ecosystem and delivering a satisfying fishing experience. Each fish species brings unique benefits to the table, whether as a forage species supporting pred...
Many ponds and small lakes experience conditions that can result in their surfaces being covered by a “scum” or biofilm. Biofilms can occur at different times of the year and their composition can vary depending on the season and waterbody characteri...
As the colorful foliage of fall settles in, it’s time to prepare your lake or pond for the colder months. At Jones Lake Management, we specialize in keeping your waterbody healthy throughout the year, and fall is a critical time to take proactive ste...
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring microorganisms that are common in lakes, ponds and slow-moving rivers. They photosynthesize and are often blue-green in color, which is why they are sometimes called blue-green algae. Unfortunately, some of these...
As the season shifts to the cooling embrace of September, it's an opportune time to discuss changes in Midwestern ponds and lakes and how these changes affect fish like largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish and forage fish. Diminishing daylight hours lea...
Transforming your pond or lake into a thriving aquatic ecosystem requires both thoughtful planning and integrated management strategies. At Jones Lake Management, we have a long history of fisheries management and understand the importance of stockin...
Understanding seasonal behavior of aquatic weeds and their roles in an ecosystem can help us better understand risks and realistic management expectations. This month we’re focusing on the fascinating behavior of a tiny, yet impactful, aquatic plant:...
Ponds and lakes offer wonderful recreational opportunities including fishing, boating and swimming. When enjoying the water this summer, it’s important to be aware of harmful algal blooms (HABs). While most algae blooms are green algae and not harmfu...
