How to build a small pond (under 200 gallons)

You've always wanted a fish pond. Only problem is you don't have a lot of available space. By following the steps outlined below you can build a pond in almost any available space.

Things You'll Need

  • plastic pond form and/or rubber pond liner
  • pump rated for up to 200 gallons
  • water supply
  • shovel and pick for hard ground
  • Fish for your pond
  • bricks or stones for edging
  • water plants
  • tap water conditioner
  • sand if using only a pond form
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide where your pond will be, whether you will use a pond form or build free form using pond liner, and how big the pond will be.

    • 2

      Map out on the ground the shape of the pond (remember to add additional room for sand if using a pre-fabricated pond form) using spray paint or string.

    • 3

      Start digging. And continue until the depth of the pond lies below the frost line (if fish will be over-wintering in the pond) and the width and length of the marked out space.

    • 4

      Lay liner into the hole. Or insert pond form (if using pond form make sure to add 2 or more inches of sand between the form and the edges of the hole to prevent damage to the pond form).

    • 5

      Add water, preferably with an outside water source connected by a hose. Straighten liner (if used) as pond fills to prevent as many overlaps as possible.

    • 6

      Finish edge of pond with stones or bricks and install pump or filter system.

    • 7

      Treat the water for chlorine and chloramines (drops available at store where fish are purchased).

    • 8

      Add fish.

    • 9

      Enjoy your new pond!