Creeks are dammed to power mills, irrigate, and for fishing. Most of these ponds cover from 10 to over 100 acres. Standing timber and stumps near deep water attract fish. When creeks prevent ponds from stratifying, fish may move deep in summer. Structure and cover are diverse, and often many species are present, as wild fish enter from the creek.

Low fishing pressure can mean superb fishing, particularly for bass and catfish. Competition with wild fish, however, may inhibit bluegill growth. Dammed creeks usually aren’t fertilized, because water quickly passes through them. Fish production on a per-acre is lower than in smaller ponds, but giant bass may be present.