Lake Information for Derby Pond

The number of largemouth bass over 12 inches has improved at Derby Pond recently. The population of bass had been dominated by sub-adult fish (8-12 inches), but the numbers of fish 12-15 inches, and also over 15 inches, have increased greatly. Growth was average, with 12 inches achieved in three years. Bass from age 1 to age 8 were collected in 2006 with the largest fish over 5 lbs. The spring 2006 population estimate of largemouth bass was 1,049 − or 45.4 bass per acre. This was the highest population estimate calculated for the pond since 1992, and was undoubtedly impacted by the very strong 2004 year class.
A high slot limit (bass 15 to 18 inches protected; only one fish larger than 18 inches can be harvested) has been in place in this pond since 1990. This specialized size and bag limit has been ineffective in increasing growth rates of bass in this pond probably due to the reluctance of anglers to harvest bass. Release rates for largemouth bass have been reported at more than percent statewide.

The abundance of bluegill has substantially increased in recent years while black crappie and yellow perch have declined. The population consisted of bluegill from ages 1 to 6 with a good proportion of older, larger fish (over 6 inches). Pumpkinseed sunfish were also present. The total panfish electrofishing catch increased from 42 in 1999 to nearly 277 per hour in 2006, due primarily to bluegill and yellow perch. Larger bluegill often concentrate in areas along the shoreline adjacent to the road and up toward the islands during the spring and fall months.

An occasional citation yellow perch has been reported to the Delaware Sportfishing Tournament. The center of the pond where the two arms meet is a good location for catching both crappie and yellow perch. American eel and chain pickerel were common, with brown bullhead and carp observed in lesser numbers.