Winterizing Small Michigan Pond with Fish

Pond Profile

4-ft diameter, 24″ deep, 8 fish (goldfish/koi), Michigan winter.

Steps

1. Clean debris (leaves, sludge) – decomposing organics consume oxygen.
2. Remove pump (store indoors).
3. Install pond de-icer (floating heater) to keep 12″ hole in ice for gas exchange.
4. Add aeration (air pump + stone) near de-icer – bubbles keep hole open, oxygenate.
5. Stop feeding when water <50°F (fish metabolism stops).
6. Net pond to keep leaves out.

Resource

Free ebook: pondmarket.com → "Free Ebook" → Winterizing guide.

Depth Note

24″ is marginal for Michigan. If severe winter, consider moving fish to indoor tank.