How to Keep Fish in Ponds

Learn how to set up your own fish pond to ensure that your fish will be provided with a suitable environment while being protected from predators, such as cats and birds. A pond can provide an attractive addition to a garden while tending to it can be an enjoyable and relaxing hobby. There are a variety of fish that can thrive in an outdoor pond including koi and goldfish.

Things You'll Need

  • Pond liner
  • Pond filter
  • Plants
  • Fish food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a suitable area to build your pond. Avoid choosing an area that is sheltered by bushes or trees as this could clog any filtering systems with fallen leaves. Choose an area that will receive at least five hours of sunlight per day to maintain healthy plant life in your pond. Dig a hole that is at least 1.5 meters in depth as this will allow the fish to escape predators on the surface and to prevent the pond from freezing during winter months. Cover the inside of pond with a flexible pond liner as this can be molded into the shape of the pond floor. The lining will prevent the pond water from soaking into the ground.

    • 2

      Install a specialized filter system in the pond, such as a gravity return filter or a pressure filter. This will help to keep the water clean by breaking down any pollutants that are present. Wait six weeks after installing the filtering system before adding the fish as this is how long it will take for the good bacteria to develop within the filter system.

    • 3

      Provide plants for the fish to hide under, such as lily pads, as this will make the fish feel safe, and it will also help to protect them from predators.

    • 4

      Feed your fish with a good quality manufactured fish food and feed daily. Provide the fish with as much food as they can eat within 3 minutes and then stop to avoid food being left uneaten as this can then pollute the water in the pond. Switch to a fish food that is high in wheatgerm during winter months to keep the fish in good health.