I don't have many fish out in the ponds anymore right now, they are all in the garage, since we have a temperature difference of about 25 degrees between day and night time, but I was out there yesterday and gave my 2 Western painted turtles a bigger home. They came from a rather shallow kiddie pool into a 160 gl tub, from green water to clear water, with some additional water plants and a filter, and I can see they are much more happy now.
While I was working out there I was wondering how everybody elses ponds are doing this winter...I am sure some are pretty cold, while some more lucky ones can still enjoy their fish moving about in the warmer water.
So, how is everybodies fish doing this winter?

Andrea, this year I took all the fish out of the ponds and set up the temporary pond in the basement with grow lights, plants, etc. Being that we've been below zero for about a week the pond is totally frozen over. I cut back my arrowhead and water lillies and put them in the bottom for the winter. Next year the Koi will all be staying in the 4ft side of pond for the winter as they are just getting way-yyy too big. I'll have to get another de-icer since last year just 1 didn't work.

Yesterday was pretty nice here so I got to go out and check my pond out more than usual. Everyone that I could find look fine - slugish but alive! I had to plug the heater in last week for a day - but other wise no problems.

My fish are in the pond, except a few fry that I brought in for the winter. I think they are doing fine? I haven't seen them in about a month. There is at least 2 inches of ice over most of the pond. I do have a surface heater in front of my skimmer, so the skimmer is taking water to the water fall still. I have nice ice formations on the water fall! It looks kind of cool, this is the first year I've ran it during the winter.

I am sure the fish are doing fine, although I sometimes worry since I haven't actually seen them in awhile. I know they are all huddled together in the deepest part of the pond cussing at the weather, like I am, looking forward to June.


Scott

http://www.81x.com/pond/mypond

Welcome back RH.
And regarding the question I will point out the benefits of living in florida: My pond is at 62.4 right now and the temps have been high enough too continue feeding everyday so far this year.
Just thought I would let all of you northerners know.

Rob

I saw your pond pictures, way cool. I like the fact that it is in a sun room, keeping preditors out. I would like to inclose mine as well, only I'd like to put a greenhouse around it for obvious reasons LOL. I have a few problems with your pond though :angry: . First your fish are really nice, I didn't notice any pond mutts like what I have! Second, it's warm enough to feed everyday. I suppose I should be posting this on the site with your pond huh? Congrats on getting it done, you did a good job.

Scott

http://www.81x.com/pond/mypond