The Selma Times-Journal

The staff at the East Selma fish pond is preparing for its opening.

This year, the pond will open at 7 a.m., April 12, a couple of weeks earlier than last year.

Last year, Elton Reece, executive director of the Selma City Recreation Department, said there was standing room only for the grand opening. This year, he hopes it will be the same.

The pond is free to everyone, but there is a limit of five catfish, 15 bream, and three bass per person per day.

Reece said the size of last year&8217;s fish was unusual. Last year, catfish were five or six pounds.

Reece said he hopes residents will not abuse the amenities the park has to offer.

Reece said one bag of fish food costs around $14, and it takes 4-5 bags to feed all of the fish for one meal.

Reece said it is important for fishers to keep the pond clean.

The aerators, which to most people look like decorative fountains in the middle of the pond, keep oxygen in the water, so the fish don&8217;t suffocate when the water gets hot.

The trash can get pumped into the aerator and damage or break it.