Preformed liners

[Farmer Adam]

I have a small 200 gallon preformed pond liner. Its 18 or 20 inches deep. is this enough to over winter fish?

 

[DrDave]

The depth is fine in most cases but the volume is not. I do not recommend it.

 

[Farmer Adam]

what is the problem with volume? It would have a very large ilter and pump on it if dirt would be the concern.

 

[DrDave]

I would think that 200 gallons might freeze much quicker than say 1500 gallons. 50 X50 X 18" deep is about 200 gallons. That just does not seem like much volume.

 

[koiguy1969]

if your liner isnt installed ..get a flexable liner...its easier to fit a liner to a hole than a hole to a liner, and thats what you'll be doing with a preformed.

 

[koikeepr]

I would think that 200 gallons might freeze much quicker than say 1500 gallons. 50 X50 X 18" deep is about 200 gallons. That just does not seem like much volume.

And in Pennsylvania the frost line is pretty deep. I do not think this would be a good idea either. I think the fish would suffer and you'd lose 'em.

 

[koiguy1969]

if your set on using the preform liner you have, and your winter prove to be too unforgiving,you could always winter your fish indoors.....i do!
https://www.gardenpondforum.com/fish-video-else-t4899.html

 

[DLWyman]

I wouldn't attempt to winter over fish in a pond that shallow., it most likely would solidly freeze along with your fish. I use to bring my fish inside for the winter.

 

[bmach]

Just use a trough deicer and you will be fine. I have had a small one like that and have never lost a fish to the winter weather in Western Mass.