Minnows and young trout, bass, catfish and bluegill commonly start with our Micro-Starter. Our 4512 feed provides 45% protein and 12% fat; choose the pellet size for the fish rather than switching to a lower-grade feed simply because it comes in a smaller pellet. Choose pellets small enough for your fish to eat comfortably, and include larger pellets as they grow. When using micro-starter in a Bill Dance feeder, mix it with larger pellets. Fine feed alone can flow through too quickly, like sand through an hourglass. We’ve found that combining sizes, including micro-starter and 3/16-inch pellets, works well and gives different-sized fish suitable feed in the same pond. Our Triton Grower Pack includes Micro-Starter, 1/8-inch Starter and 3/16-inch Performance feed. Many customers add these in alternating layers when filling their Bill Dance feeder. Adjust the feed-release setting and run a short test after changing your mix to check the amount dispensed.

Start with the fish species, their size, and whether they feed at the surface or below it. We use the same high-protein feed we sell. Our 4512 feed contains 45% protein and 12% fat. Many basic catfish and general-purpose pond feeds contain less protein and fat. Protein supports growth, while fat supplies concentrated energy, making the formula especially important when feeding predatory fish.

In our experience, largemouth bass and hybrid striped bass train well to our 4512 feed. The right pellet size and a consistent feeding routine also matter. Not every fish starts taking pellets immediately, but neither species should be dismissed as unable to learn.

Compare the formula, pellet size and floating or sinking form. A protein percentage alone does not tell you whether a feed is suitable for your fish.

Choose a pellet the fish can swallow readily and watch their feeding response. Smaller fish need smaller particles; a mixed-size population may need more than one pellet size. If pellets are repeatedly mouthed and rejected, check the size and feed choice before offering more.

Floating feed makes it easier to see feeding activity and uneaten pellets. Sinking feed can suit fish that feed below the surface. Match the feed to the species, conditions and feeding behavior, and avoid adding more feed simply because you cannot see the sinking pellets.

Check your feeder model’s approved pellet sizes and feed types before buying. Small pellets, large pellets and sinking feeds may dispense differently. Use the manufacturer’s safe test procedure to check the amount dispensed and adjust to the feeding plan.