PORTSVILLE POND
| Portsville
Pond 14.5 acres Bethel Although largemouth bass are present in good numbers in this small pond, few larger fish (over 15 inches) are found. A high number of stock-size (8- to 12-inch) bass was present due to a strong 2004 year class and lower than average growth rates. Legal length for Portsville Pond bass was not achieved until almost 5 years old. Strong 2000 and 2001 year classes were also noted, so the number of larger fish should increase within the next two years. Total panfish numbers were low and consisted only of bluegill and yellow perch. Both numbers and growth of bluegill are low but weights were average. Few chain pickerel are present despite the dense rooted plant community normally preferred by this species. Non-game fish included golden shiner, yellow bullhead, creek chubsucker, and brown bullhead. VEGETATION Historically this pond had a mixed community of rooted aquatic plants including bladderworts, milfoils, and musk-grass. However, in the late 1990s, hydrilla and fanwort became established and have come to dominate the pond. These two non-native species can grow very densely and make it difficult for fish-foraging species such as bass and chain pickerel to catch their prey. The very clear water is due to these two species and impacts angling techniques. SPECIAL CONDITIONS The relatively small size of this pond makes it most suitable for a canoe or non-motorized boat. Although a shallow launch ramp is available for larger boats, the huge old tree stumps and fallen logs impede navigation. Luckily, the clear water offers excellent visibility so that they can be avoided. |
Click map to enlarge |