Pond Stocking FAQ
What types of pond stocking fish can I order online?
Toledo Goldfish offers several varieties of pond stocking fish, including bass, blue gill, channel catfsh and fun pond critters like crayfish, snails and tadpoles. Each type has unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences among pond enthusiasts. To see a full list of all pond stocking fish and critters for sale, check them out here.
Why are Fathead Minnows a Great Food Source?
Black Fathead Minnows, and their cousins Rosie Red Minnows, are small fish that serve as an ideal food source for larger predatory fish. They reproduce quickly, providing a sustainable source of live food for your pond inhabitants. Fathead Minnows are high in protein and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious option for your fish.
What is the recommended stocking rate for minnows?
We recommend stocking your pond with 40-50 lbs of minnows per acre, twice per year. Minnows are known for their prolific spawning, which results in a continuous production of young fish throughout the spring and summer months. These small fish primarily feed on zooplankton and phytoplankton, which are essential components of the natural habitat in your pond.
Why are crayfish a great food source for certain fish species?
Crayfish, also called crawfish or crawdads, are another excellent food source for pond fish. These crustaceans are rich in protein and are a natural part of many fish diets. Crayfish help keep the pond clean by consuming organic debris, algae, and small insects. By adding crayfish to your pond, you can create a balanced ecosystem that supports the overall health of your fish. It is advisable to stock crayfish along with minnows in early Spring or early Fall to allow them enough time to establish themselves in the pond. We recommend a stocking rate of 200 crayfish per acre.
When is the best time to stock bass, bluegill, and channel catfish?
For optimal results, it is recommended to stock bass, bluegill, and channel catfish in late Spring or early Summer when temperatures are still mild. This timing allows the fish to acclimate to their new environment and ensures a higher survival rate. By following these stocking guidelines, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports a diverse range of sport and game fish in your pond.
Why do largemouth bass thrive with vegetation and other food sources?
Largemouth bass are known for their preference for lots of vegetation in their habitat. They also feed on a variety of food sources, including minnows and crayfish. To ensure the health and well-being of your largemouth bass population, it is recommended to stock no more than 100 fish per acre in well-established ponds.
What makes bluegill sunfish a hearty fish?
Bluegill sunfish are considered a very hearty fish species that can adapt well to different conditions. They have a diverse diet that includes fish food, minnows, and insects. Due to their resilience and feeding habits, bluegill sunfish can be stocked at a heavier rate compared to largemouth bass, with 350 or more fish per acre as the recommended stocking rate.
Why are channel catfish best suited for mud bottom ponds?
Channel catfish are bottom feeders that thrive in mud bottom ponds. They have a voracious appetite for crayfish, bluegill, other smaller fish, and fish food. To ensure that your channel catfish population thrives, it is best to stock them at a lower rate of 50 fish per acre. This allows them to have access to an ample food supply and space to forage.
Can I buy just male or female fish or pond critters?
No, all the fish we offer are too young and immature to accurately determine their sex. During certain times of the year, we are to sex crayfish and can sell them by male or female varieties. This comes at a premium. Please contact our office for pricing.
Are your fish imported?
No, our fish are not imported. All fish and pond critters for sale are raised on a family farm in the USA. All fish are sourced from this single farm.
What is the shipping policy for fish orders?
Toledo Goldfish provides free shipping on all fish orders $25 or more. We process orders for arrival to your door from Tuesday to Friday, with same-day shipping for orders placed by 10 AM EST, Monday through Thursday. Our shipping policy can be found here.
How do I ensure the health of my fish upon arrival?
To guarantee the health of your fish, it is essential to follow the acclimation process included in your order's packaging. This process helps your new fish adjust to the temperature and conditions of your aquarium or pond. You can also find our step-by-step acclimation instructions here.
How long can my fish stay in the box?
Upon receiving your order, follow our acclimation instructions promptly. Begin the acclimation process immediately after delivery. It is crucial to have someone at home to follow the step-by-step instructions, including floating the fish bag for no more than 15-20 minutes. Prolonged exposure to high ammonia levels in the bag can lead to stress and health issues for your fish. IF SOMEONE CANNOT BE PRESENT TO RECEIVE YOUR FISH SHIPMENT, PLEASE DO NOT ORDER.
Are there any restrictions on shipping certain aquatic species?
Yes, certain species have shipping restrictions based on state regulations. For example, bullfrog tadpoles cannot be shipped to AZ, PA, UT, and WA, while koi cannot be shipped to Maine. It is important to check these restrictions before placing an order.
What should I do if my fish arrive damaged or dead?
If your fish arrive damaged or deceased, please check the number of live fish you have received, as well as the number of fish that arrived with issue. With most orders, extra fish are included with your order just in case any do not travel well. We do our very best to deliver a healthy product, but these are live animals and are susceptible to travel related stress. Because of this, we do have a Live Arrival Guarantee to make sure you do receive your ordered number of live fish. If you have any issues, contact us at info@toledogoldfish.com within 24 hours of receiving your order. Please include your order number as well as the number of live fish you received.
Can I request a specific delivery date for my fish order?
Yes, if you would like to receive your order on a specific date, please email us at info@toledogoldfish.com with your request after submitting your order. We will do our best to accommodate your request, keeping in mind that deliveries can only occur from Tuesday to Friday. You can also reach us thru our Contact Us form.
How can I contact Toledo Goldfish for further inquiries about my koi fish order?
You can reach us via email at info@toledogoldfish.com for any further inquiries or assistance regarding your koi fish order.
Can I order a different quantity of goldfish than what is listed on your website?
While we list our fish in quantities that optimize shipping costs, you may request a lesser number of fish. However, it is important to note that you will still be required to purchase the quantity we have listed.
How do you size your fish?
We adhere to the industry standard for measuring fish, which is from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail. The size of the fish you receive may vary within the ordered size range. While we strive to provide fish that are close to the average size, it is possible to receive fish at the minimum size of the range. If you prefer larger fish, we recommend ordering a size up.
Do you take back fish if I can no longer care for them?
No, under no circumstances do we allow any fish back on our farm once it has left due to bio-security standards.
Do you ship overseas or to P.O. boxes?
No, we do not. We utilize FedEx and UPS to ship within the continental United States and can also ship to Hawaii (with proper documentation from buyer) and Alaska. Shipping addresses must be a physical shipping address and cannot be a PO box. We do not ship overseas.
Do you have a retail location?
No, we do not. We currently only offer our goldfish for sale through our online website, as well as a few other online retailers. Your best price is purchasing directly from our website.
Can I pick up an order?
No, you may not. Our facility is a closed premise and we currently only offer shipments via UPS and FedEx.
Why are Fathead Minnows a Great Food Source?
Black Fathead Minnows, and their cousins Rosie Red Minnows, are small fish that serve as an ideal food source for larger predatory fish. They reproduce quickly, providing a sustainable source of live food for your pond inhabitants. Fathead Minnows are high in protein and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious option for your fish.
What is the recommended stocking rate for minnows?
We recommend stocking your pond with 40-50 lbs of minnows per acre, twice per year. Minnows are known for their prolific spawning, which results in a continuous production of young fish throughout the spring and summer months. These small fish primarily feed on zooplankton and phytoplankton, which are essential components of the natural habitat in your pond.
Why are crayfish a great food source for certain fish species?
Crayfish, also called crawfish or crawdads, are another excellent food source for pond fish. These crustaceans are rich in protein and are a natural part of many fish diets. Crayfish help keep the pond clean by consuming organic debris, algae, and small insects. By adding crayfish to your pond, you can create a balanced ecosystem that supports the overall health of your fish. It is advisable to stock crayfish along with minnows in early Spring or early Fall to allow them enough time to establish themselves in the pond. We recommend a stocking rate of 200 crayfish per acre.
When is the best time to stock bass, bluegill, and channel catfish?
For optimal results, it is recommended to stock bass, bluegill, and channel catfish in late Spring or early Summer when temperatures are still mild. This timing allows the fish to acclimate to their new environment and ensures a higher survival rate. By following these stocking guidelines, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports a diverse range of sport and game fish in your pond.
Why do largemouth bass thrive with vegetation and other food sources?
Largemouth bass are known for their preference for lots of vegetation in their habitat. They also feed on a variety of food sources, including minnows and crayfish. To ensure the health and well-being of your largemouth bass population, it is recommended to stock no more than 100 fish per acre in well-established ponds.
What makes bluegill sunfish a hearty fish?
Bluegill sunfish are considered a very hearty fish species that can adapt well to different conditions. They have a diverse diet that includes fish food, minnows, and insects. Due to their resilience and feeding habits, bluegill sunfish can be stocked at a heavier rate compared to largemouth bass, with 350 or more fish per acre as the recommended stocking rate.
Why are channel catfish best suited for mud bottom ponds?
Channel catfish are bottom feeders that thrive in mud bottom ponds. They have a voracious appetite for crayfish, bluegill, other smaller fish, and fish food. To ensure that your channel catfish population thrives, it is best to stock them at a lower rate of 50 fish per acre. This allows them to have access to an ample food supply and space to forage.