How to Build a Filtered Fish Pond
Adding a fish pond to your yard or property can dramatically increase its use and provide a focal point for social interaction. A well-maintained and functional pond can also elevate the beauty and value of the property. Medium to large ponds can supply a steady harvest of fresh fish and create a sanctuary for an aquatic ecosystem. Thousands of years ago, human beings found that by damming off or sectioning areas of streams, rivers and lakes, they could farm fresh fish. Later on, they excavated their own ponds and built fish populations to meet local needs and demands. Today, there are millions of fish ponds throughout the world, each one different from the other. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Excavation tools
- String
- Pond liner(s) or premolded pond shape
- Clean, filtered sand
- Clean, contaminant-free rock
- Electric or solar pump
- 2-stage electrical wiring
- Underground conduit for electrical wiring
- Vinyl tubing
- Clean, contaminant-free charcoal
- Water treatment chemicals
- Freshwater fish
- Aquatic plants
Instructions
-
Building a Filtered Fishpond
-
1
Select the location for your pond and remove all obstacles, including grass, vegetation and weeds. Using string, outline the finished shape of the pond and begin excavation, starting at the perimeter and working toward the center. Dig at an angle with a spade or pointed shovel from the bank to the center of the pond area, leveling the bottom at the desired depth. The level bottom should be approximately half the circumference of the finished pond. If using a molded pond shape, dig out enough soil so that the top of the mold is level with the ground surrounding the pond.
-
2
Place liner(s) in the excavated hole, allowing overlap in sectional pieces if two or more are needed to cover the entire pond area. Make sure that the overall liner is larger than the finished hole, as it needs to conform to the bottom and banks of the pond. The liner will shrink considerably when filled with water. If two or more liners are used, make sure they are seamed together properly so that leaking will not occur. Follow directions provided by the liner manufacturer. Testing the seams before continuing is highly recommended.
-
-
3
Place 1 to 2 inches of sand in the bottom of the liner or mold and ensure that the surface is level. Then place sand along the sides and bank. Wetting the sand will help keep it in place. Place rocks in various locations in the pond, but do not cover the entire bottom or banks. You may also want to place rocks around the edge of the pond to help secure the liner. Place additional rocks and charcoal of varying sizes up one bank of the pond, to form an area for a waterfall. Locate the pump at the opposite side of the waterfall at the bottom of the pond. Run vinyl tubing from the pump through and around the rocks forming the waterfall. Allow several extra feet for movement up and out of pond.
-
4
Trench for electrical wiring, in approved conduit, from bank to electrical supply with a spade in a straight line 6 inches deep and 2 inches wide. If using a solar-powered pump, follow the instructions supplied by the pump manufacturer. Place electrical wiring in the trench and connect the power source to the pump, following the pump manufacturer's instructions.
-
5
Fill the pond with clean water to the desired level. Add chemical treatment as specified by the chemical manufacturer, based on volume of water. Turn on the pump and allow the water to circulate for 24 hours.
-
6
Place fish in the pond carefully. Allow the fish to acclimate for 24 hours.
-
7
Place aquatic plants in various locations throughout the pond, as suggested by the growers. Trim any excess liner from the edges of the pond, making sure to cover any exposed liner with sand and rocks. Clean up leftover material and debris, and fill and level the electrical conduit trench. Kick back and enjoy your new pond!
-
1
Tips & Warnings
When making your waterfall, cover the hose without crimping it under too much weight. Work upward to pile rocks in shelf-like sections for the waterfall, which runs downhill to the pond. Secure the hose inside the rock pile so that the water flows evenly at the top of the waterfall. Creating varying levels at the bottom of the pond adds dimension to the pond's appearance. Using fish that are adaptable to one another will ensure peaceful coexistence. Be sure that you can accommodate the specific needs of each species of fish prior to purchase. Adding a level surface of brick pavers or flagstone around the edge of the pond creates a nice finishing touch.
Although not required by law everywhere, you may wish to consider installing a security fence around the pond to prevent accidental drowning of animals or people. Follow water treatment directions very carefully to avoid damage to plants or fish.
