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Building an Outdoor Fish Pond

Building an Outdoor Fish Pond

Updated on November 03, 2021
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Reviewed by Don Spaeth
Petco’s National Aquatic Care, Education and Programs Manager
Koi Fish

Looking to spruce up your backyard or garden with a water feature? An aquatic water feature or fish pond might be just what you are looking for!

We know what you’re thinking, “Who is going to dig this big hole in my yard?”. Well, not all outdoor ponds need be the size of swimming pool to be entertaining. But don’t koi require a large environment? Koi do require environments suitable for their size but there are some species of fish, outside of koi, that will do well in a smaller outdoor aquatic environment.

Now it is not just as easy as digging a hole and filling it with water. An outdoor aquatic environment needs to be maintained like you would your home aquarium, ensuring the best environment and stable water quality is being provided.  

Choosing a Location for Your Fish Pond

The first step is to determine the best location. Since it is not typical to heat a pond, it is best to have the pond partially submerged into the ground or constructed with a thicker insulating material which will help maintain some consistency in water temperature. Because these are not heated, it is best to make certain the nighttime temperatures are not dipping much past 65 degrees. If your evening temps start to get a little cooler, it is best to add a heater or move the aquatic life into a suitable indoor aquarium.

When selecting a location, it is best to provide some shade so that it will not receive direct sunlight all day. Depending on the volume of water, a small pond or water feature can heat up quickly causing unsuitable water temperatures for the aquatic life.

Environmental conditions can be a contributing factor when determining pond placement. Flower petals and tree leaves can impact water quality if not removed quickly. This can also apply to grass clippings blowing into the water while cutting the lawn. If using fertilizers and herbicides, these chemicals can cause a toxic environment for any aquatic inhabitants if they were to enter the water. Please do not overlook where the water feature is going to be placed regarding these items for the health and safety of your finned friends.

Do not overlook protecting your investment when designing, placing, and constructing your water feature. With your water feature being exposed to the elements, your aquatic life can be at risk of predation. Little critters like racoons and birds can make a big dent in your aquatic life population. Even neighborhood cats may find your fish a tasty snack. Providing rocks and caves will help provide some safe and secure hiding areas.

Pond Filtering and Water Quality

A filter is needed to ensure the best water quality is being provided for your finny friends. A pond filter will keep debris from fouling the water and help keep it crystal clear. This can also serve as a location for beneficial bacteria to colonize eliminating harmful ammonia and nitrites. In addition to the filter, the addition of a UV sterilizer  can assist with keeping your water from turning green.

Speaking of filtered water, do not just grab the garden hose to refill or top off your pond. If using city water, this water can contain chlorine or chloramine. These chemicals are toxic to aquatic life and the water needs to be dechlorinated prior to being added.

Plants can bring an additional level of beauty to your aquatic environment. Not only do plants enhance the aesthetics, but they also improve the water quality. Plants take in nutrients from the water, acting as nature’s natural filter. Additionally, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Plant species, like water lilies, provide shade from the sun and provide some security for the aquatic life from predators.

Pond Fish

It is not all about the goldfish anymore. There are several smaller fish species suitable for a larger water features or small ponds. Fish species like Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis), White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes), and Weather Loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) are a couple good species that will stay smaller and do well in cooler water.

Keep in mind that if you are drawn to koi or goldfish these species can get large. Koi (Cyprinus carpio koi) are an ornamental carp that can grow as large 36”. Common goldfish (Carassius auratus) are also a member of the carp family and can reach sizes of 18”. If wanting to share your life with a personable species like koi, they require a minimum water volume of 250 gallons. These larger sized ponds will also require a more robust filtration system to ensure optimal water quality is being provided.

Koi Fish

Maintaining an Outdoor Pond

A fully planted outdoor water feature or small pond can be pretty self-sustaining but they are not completely hands-off.  They still require periodic water changes to help keep nitrate levels stable and being outside, you may find yourself spending time scooping out debris. Feeding your aquatic life 1 – 2 times per day may quickly become the highlight of your aquatic adventure as your fish scramble to devour the tasty fish food.

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