Pond Crop Management
Low/no oxygen is the primary cause of fish death in most ponds, however fish death can also occur as a result of disease or chemical toxicity.
- Fish kills can be referred to the Maryland Department of the Environment at 410-537-3818
Pond owners do not need a permit to stock channel catfish, bluegills, fathead minnows or golden shiners. Any other species of fish requires a permit for stocking (even in a private pond).
- Stocking permits and a list of certified fish vendors can be obtained by contacting Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 410-260-8320.
Fish from rivers, streams or other ponds should not be used for stocking due to the possible introduction of disease or other undesirable organisms to the pond.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources will provide fish to a pond owner if their pond meets the following criteria:
- newly constructed or reclaimed ponds which do not contain fish and
- ponds which are expected to support healthy fish populations.
Pond owners interested in this program should contact their regional DNR office.
More helpful information...
Stocking Your Pond with Fish - State Programs, Rates, etc.
Stocking Your Pond with Fish - General Information on Pond Stocking
How to Inventory the Fish Population in Your Pond
Analyzing Farm Pond Populations