When you encounter a situation where there are no redfish in a pond but a significant presence of garfish, it could indicate a few possibilities:
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Habitat Preference: Redfish and garfish have different habitat preferences. Redfish typically prefer shallow, brackish waters with grassy flats, oyster beds, and marshes. Garfish, on the other hand, are often found in deeper, freshwater environments such as ponds and lakes. So, the absence of redfish could suggest that the pond's conditions are not suitable for their preferred habitat.
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Food Availability: Redfish and garfish have distinct feeding habits. Redfish are primarily carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey including crustaceans, small fish, and shrimp. Garfish, also known as longnose gar, have elongated jaws and primarily feed on smaller fish and invertebrates. If the pond has an abundance of prey that aligns more with garfish's feeding preferences, it can explain their presence and the absence of redfish.
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Seasonal Factors: Fish behavior can vary throughout the year due to seasonal changes. Redfish may migrate or move to different areas based on factors like water temperature, spawning patterns, or availability of food sources. In contrast, garfish are more adaptable and can tolerate a wider range of environmental conditions, allowing them to persist in the pond.
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Environmental Factors: It's essential to consider the overall environmental conditions of the pond. Factors such as water quality, salinity, dissolved oxygen levels, and vegetation can influence the distribution of fish species. If the pond lacks the necessary conditions or has undergone changes that favor garfish over redfish, it can contribute to the observed abundance of garfish.
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Fishing Pressure: Human activities, including fishing pressure, can impact fish populations. If the pond has experienced high fishing pressure targeting redfish, it can deplete their numbers while leaving behind species like garfish that are less targeted.
It's important to note that fish populations can fluctuate over time, and the absence of redfish in a particular pond does not necessarily mean they will never be present. If you're specifically targeting redfish, it may be worth exploring other nearby water bodies or adjusting your fishing strategy to match the prevailing species in the pond.