Make sure that fish will thrive in your pond by only stocking fish that will like the conditions it provides. Also provide plenty of hiding places for the brightly coloured varieties that draw the unwelcome attention of herons. Plenty of pond plants, along with a piece of clay pipe on the pond bottom will give them some cover.

Choice of native fish

Trout - these require more oxygen than other fish, so are not very practical for small ponds or where there's no power supply to drive a waterfall or fountain. Trout must be introduced at the same time as other fish. If not, the trout will eat the newcomers.

Tench and golden tench - these are scavengers that keep the pond clean.

Golden rudd - add colour and movement to the pond.

Roach - these like still waters and reeds.

3-spined stickleback - familiar little fish from childhood pond-dabbling days.

Choice of introduced fish

Orfe - these come up to the surface and jump up to catch insects.

Goldfish - undemanding colourful creatures.

Koi carp - available in a range of sizes and colours. If you're serious about Koi and growing prize specimens, you'll need to build a purpose-made specialist pond (extra deep and kitted out with lots of equipment).