Goldfish, shubunkins and other smaller pond fish: stocking numbers, feeding and keeping them happy in a garden pond.
Goldfish and similar fish are hardy, colorful and a good fit for most garden ponds. They control mosquito larvae, add movement and are fun to watch. They are also the most commonly overstocked fish, since a handful of small fish becomes a crowd.
A good rule is to start with fewer fish than you think you need. Fish grow, breed and add waste. A pond with healthy plants, a decent filter and moderate feeding keeps small fish happy for many years.
Fewer fish at first.
Less food, cleaner water.
Plants and rock for cover.
Moving water for healthy fish.
Hiding spots from herons.
Depth and gas exchange.
Koi PondsDeep, well-filtered ponds built for koi, with the volume, circulation and safety features that keep big fish healthy…Explore 
Koi and Fish HealthWater testing, feeding plans, stocking advice and early-warning checks that keep pond fish healthy and growing.Explore 
Emergency Pond RepairFast help when a pond is draining, a pump has failed, fish are in trouble or storm damage…Explore 
Pond AerationAir diffusers, bottom aerators and fountain aerators that keep oxygen up through hot summer weeks and winter ice.Explore Size a pond, pick a pump or ballpark the cost.
Pond Volume and Gallons CalculatorEnter length, width and average depth and see the gallons your pond holds, the pump flow to aim for and the water for a first fill.Try it 
Pond Pump Size CalculatorEnter pond volume, waterfall width and lift and see the pump flow to look for.Try it 
Pond and Water Feature Cost EstimatorPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it A few small fish per hundred gallons is plenty at first. They will grow and multiply.
Yes, in a pond with enough depth and a little gas exchange.
Yes. They are great at keeping larvae down.
SituationNew YardsStarting from bare ground: where to put water, how big to go and what to decide before the…Learn more 
SituationNeglected PondsA pond that has turned green, filled with muck or been swallowed by weeds can nearly always be…Learn more 
SituationCommercial and CommunityWater for entrances, lobbies, campuses and neighborhoods: durable, safe and presentable every single day.Learn more 
SituationFarm and Large PropertiesPonds for stock, fishing, irrigation and views on acreage: what size to build, how to keep them healthy…Learn more Quick scheduling, careful work and a clear price before we start.
