The Use of Fathead Minnows in Lakes

Fathead minnows are a forage food for bass and larger fish. When there is a new pond or lake, there needs to be food for the larger fish, and these fish that are the food are called forage fish. Fathead minnows fill this requirement for bass. They remain small enough to be the food for larger fish, as they never grow bigger than 3.5 inches. Adults can be as small as 1.5 inches.

These minnows eat plant material, aquatic insects, and algae. When it is time for the spawning season, the males turn dark around their heads, hence, they are sometimes called blackhead minnows. Knobs on the males' snouts and chins are used to bump unwanted visitors from nests and also to create the nesting area.

How many minnows do you need when stocking a pond or lake? A ratio that is used is 300 to 500 minnows per surface acre. However, there is a timing that needs to be considered when stocking the fish. If they are stocked at the wrong time of year, or when the predator fish are too big, the minnows will not survive because they will be eaten right away. If they are to survive, they must be introduced before the game fish are entered into the waters, at least one season before. This gives them time to get established and reproduce. Also, concerning the desired multiplication of the minnows, if that is to happen, the environment must be conducive to this. Plus, there must be the proper level of males and females.

If you are planning a pond or lake, it is best to talk to your lake management professional. The various concerns about how to use fathead minnows are best addressed by professionals. To set up a pond or lake in the wrong way will only necessitate having to fix it later. It is better to get professional help from the beginning.