Derby Pond
23.1 acres
The number of largemouth bass over 12 inches has improved at Derby Pond
but fish over 15 inches remain elusive. Growth was average, with 12
inches achieved between three and four years. Bass from age 1 to age 7
were collected in 2009, but 2007 and 2005 year classes were particularly
abundant. The spring 2009 population estimate of largemouth bass was 880
(confidence Interval 359-2,200) or 38 bass per acre.
A high slot limit (bass 15 to 18 inches protected, only one larger than
18 inches can be harvested) was in place here for a number of years but
was dropped (effective 4/10/10) due to the reluctance of anglers to
harvest small bass. Release rates for largemouth bass have been reported
at more than 90% statewide.
The abundance of bluegill has increased in recent years as have black
crappie and yellow perch. The bluegill population consisted of fish from
ages 1 to 5 with dominated by age 1 and 2 (4-6 inches). Growth was
average. Pumpkinseed sunfish were also present. The total panfish
electrofishing catch increased from 277 per hour in 2006 to 432 by 2009,
due primarily to bluegill and yellow perch. Larger bluegill often
concentrate in areas along the shoreline adjacent to the road and up
toward the islands during the spring and fall months.
An occasional citation yellow perch has been reported to the Delaware
Sportfishing Tournament. The center of the pond where the two arms meet
is a good location for both crappie and yellow perch. American eel and
chain pickerel were common, with brown bullhead and carp observed in
lesser numbers.
VEGETATION
The aquatic vegetation of this pond consists of spatterdock with some
floating mats of algae. Large numbers of Canada geese in the pond have
denuded some of the shoreline areas of vegetation and undoubtedly have
contributed to the nutrient load within the pond. Mats of filamentous
(thread-like) green algae were observed in many areas throughout the
pond and often require herbicide treatment. The edges of spatterdock
beds often hold bass during the summer months.
SPECIAL CONDITION
The protected slot limit of 15 to 18 inches for largemouth bass has been
removed from this pond so the statewide bag limit of 6 bass and minimum
size of 12 inches is in place.
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Click map to enlarge
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Derby pond is a nice place to just
go and enjoy fishing. Senkos and poppers prevail here. Lots and lots of
largemouth bass. |