An Idea for Protecting Fish From Predators

[clark kent]

A blue heron has eaten about four of my goldies. I'm afraid I'm going to have to put up a net. A net would definitely prevent the predators from getting my fish, but a net requires constant attention, and is in the way of cleaning and just enjoying my pond.

I have an idea.

My fish like to swim and congregate in the spaces under flat rocks resting on round rocks in the bottom of the pond. See the photo below. So, if I add more of these flat rock shelters, wouldn't that offer the fish additional places to hide from predators?

 

[Tula]

Hiding places are a good idea, however herons are patient hunters and will wait for them to come out. They also are able to regurgitate and the fish think it's food and come out. Honestly a net is the best protection.

We built a raised " hoop house" using electrical conduit over our pond and it allowed us to be inside and under the net more easily. The wide weave net we chose really didn't block our view.

 

[addy1]

My net hangs 2 to 3 feet over the pond. Wide weave, 4 inch. No problem to work on the pond.

 

[Lisak1]

@Tula hit on the exact problem – fish will hide, but herons are very patient hunters. They will wait all day for those fish to make a move if you want or need 100% protection a net is really the only way to go for a sure thing.

We have herons that fly over our pond daily. I believe the only reason they’ve never landed in my yard and hunted my pond is because we are in a very small yard that’s completely enclosed by fences trees, bushes, etc. they don’t like the feeling of not being able to get away quickly.

 

[j.w]

Only a net for me forever and ever, Amen! Up high like @addy1 has and easier to get in by just unhooking and lifting it up. The Heron can come by and say hi but only drool for my fish now. Heavy rope running around the top edge and across the top holds the net up strong.

 

[Hound Heaven]

I use a popup frame over my pond, mostly for leaves but it would solve the bird issue too. And it can be raised so the view is mostly unobstructed.

 

[GBBUDD]

THERE IS ALSO THE SCARECROW, ITS A WATER SPRINKLER THAT HAS A MOTIUO SENSOR . AND THEY NOW HAVE THE DANCING CHARATER YOU SEE OUTSIDE STORES TRYING TO ATTRACT ATTENTION. I PUT MY NETS VERTICAL WITH CABLES RUNNING OVER HEAD WITH LIGHTS

 

[j.w]

Anyone who lives in a zone of no freeze can use those scarecrow dudes all year long. Lucky you! Others like me cannot as they freeze so have to use a net. My net I notice is really starting to fall apart on top tho. I might just run fish line across when it gets too holey and just cut off the top part of the net. See how it goes!