Question regarding small pond maintenance?

Question

We have a catfish pond that is approximately 1 acre. The problem is the pond has become so over run with snapping turtles and they are eating the fish. I went fishing this week and was shocked to see that every single fish that I caught was alive obviously but had been half eaten by the turtles. Would my best bet be to just clean the whole pond out and start all over? How can I eliminate the number of turtles? I dont want to just restock the pond if the turtles are going to eat everything?

Answer 1

I would drain the lake and collect the turtles (and fish). Put up a short fence (12") to keep the turtles out.  They're probably starving- very little food (besides fish).  Mabye you ought to think about feeding the turtles????

Answer 2

I feel for you. Turtles are a problem. Eat the fish, ducks, and anything else they can get there jaws on, including your hand and feet. Unfortunately, there isn't any way of getting rid of them.

Drain the pond, pick up the fish and turtles. Dispose of the turtles. Refill the pond, restock the pond with fish you picked up or new stock from hatcheries.

Just be aware some of the turtles will dig into the mud when you drain the pond and re-emerge when fill the pond.

I think you are stuck with them.