Small stocked fishing pond with day passes

Families with kids, beginner anglers, scout and church groups, and local fishing hobbyists who want a sure catch close to home.

Day-pass or half-day fees, optional per-pound charges for fish kept, rental rod sales, and group or birthday party bookings. Weekends and school holidays bring most of the income.

• Basic pond and fish care
• Friendly with families and beginners
• Simple bookkeeping and scheduling

• Check your state wildlife agency for any fee-fishing, stocking or aquaculture permit and which species you may stock
• General liability insurance matters because of water, hooks and children; ask your insurer about it
• Zoning, HOA or lease rules may limit public visitors, parking and signs; check with your county
• Summer heat and low oxygen can kill fish, so budget for aeration and replacement stock
• Safety: consider fencing, life rings and clear rules for kids

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the pond's condition, how much stock you buy, and facilities like parking, benches and a portable restroom. This is an estimate and assumes you already have the land.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your daily fee, how many anglers visit and how seasonal your area is. This is an estimate of revenue, before fish restocking and upkeep costs.

Check with your state wildlife agency about any fee-fishing, stocking or aquaculture permit and which species you may stock. Also ask your insurer about general liability, and check county zoning, HOA or lease rules on visitors, parking and signs.