Building A Fish Pond For Your Backyard

A backyard fish pond is something that many people dream of but never actually get out and do it.  This is really a shame as it is not that difficult of a home improvement project if you have the knowledge.  The steps are fairly simple, and the work is not so taxing that you could not do it yourself.  If you have some people that can help out, it will certainly cut into the amount of time it takes to build your backyard fish pond.  Here is a step by step guide on how to build that fish pond you always dreamed of:

1. Figure out the location of your backyard fish pond.  You can make them large or small, but keep in mind that the larger the pond, the more maintenance you will run into.  You will want to find a location that has both plenty of sun, and some shade.  This is because the fish need both, and the sun will allow the plants that you add to grow.  Mark off the area that you want to the fish pond to be located.
2. The next step is the toughest, as you have to dig the hole for the fish pond.  Do yourself a favor and make certain that no lines, gas or otherwise are located in your dig site.  Once you begin digging, you will want to dig about three feet in the center, and leave about a one foot drop off around the edges.  This will serve as a step if you need to do maintenance work, and also as a place to put plants if desired.
3. Pick out a pump and filter for the fish pond.  This is important and you can ask the local home improvement folks what size you need based on the size of the pond.  You will also need to make sure that you have electricity to run the pump.  This is something that you should consult a local electrician for, as there are many variables I can not possibly cover here.  Bottom line, make sure the electric set up is safe or you could electrocute yourself, the fish, or anyone else that comes near.
4. Clear out the hole of any debris as well as potential problem areas such as roots and stumps.  This is so that the liner will not be punctured or damaged in any way.  Then put sand in the hole and spread it evenly throughout.
5. Purchase a fish pond liner for the pond.  Spread the liner over the hole and put in place so that it will cover the entire pond after the water is added.
6. Fill the pond with water taking special care to make sure not to overfill.  While the water is filling, you can place a border around the edges to hold the liner in place.  Rocks of all types are wonderful for this purpose and gives the backyard pond a wonderful natural look.  Hide excess liner trim with more rocks or plants.
7. Install the filter and pump.  This is done by hooking up the pump and filter with tubing and then a tube to the fountain source you are using.  This can be a waterfall, fountain or any other creative way to move the water around.  As long as the water is going through the filter, it is acceptable.
8. Add in the fish, but only after making sure you have the proper water mixture.  Your local pet store can help you with these details when you buy your fish.  Ask plenty of questions to be sure you have the right mix in place for your new friends.
9. Add plants and decorations to taste.

You now have your backyard fish pond that you always dreamed about.  Remember, you have to keep the pond clean and keep up the maintenance over time, but the pond will be such a source of enjoyment that you will not notice the work.

The fishpond photo in this post was taken by Chris Palmer.

Tagged as: backyard pond, fish pond