Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →

How to Raise Fish in an Above Ground Swimming Pool

Many fish farms will raise fish in pools because it is the most inexpensive way to create and maintain a pond environment. An above-ground swimming pool that is not being used for swimming can easily be turned into a pond. All that is required is a water source, an effective pond filtration system, a fish-safe pool liner, and correct monitoring and maintenance of the water. This is a very effective way to raise koi or to farm fish.

C[ [the pool liner](https://www.gardenguides.com/12003777-things-to-do-with-used-swimming-pools.html) ]eck if the pool liner is safe for fish. The more expensive pool liners are likely to have been treated with algaecide, which is harmful to fish (see Reference 1). The liner may need to be replaced or covered; a cheap liner should be the safest choice.

If the pool is filled, completely drain the water. If desired, wipe down the liner to remove any grime or debris, then fill the pool with water using a garden hose or any other source of water.

Add chlorine remover or water conditioner, available at most pet stores, to the water, since tap water has probably been treated with chlorine and contains heavy metals (see Reference 2).

Use a test kit to monitor chemical levels in the water on a regular basis. If any level is off, many products on the market can be added to the water to adjust and correct the levels.

  • Check if the pool liner is safe for fish.
  • If any level is off, many products on the market can be added to the water to adjust and correct the levels.

Install a pond filter to the pool. Since pool liners may become damaged by substrate, the only surface in the pool for beneficial bacteria to grow will be the filter medium. Healthy bacteria are necessary to purify toxins from the water, so a very good filter system must be installed for fish to live. If necessary, bacteria can be purchased commercially.

Run the filter and continue monitoring and correcting the chemical levels. Add some goldfish or inexpensive koi to test the waters. If the fish live, it's safe to begin adding fish.

  • Install a pond filter to the pool.
  • Healthy bacteria are necessary to purify toxins from the water, so a very good filter system must be installed for fish to live.

Related Articles

How to Troubleshoot Swimming Pool Scum on the Surface
How to Troubleshoot Swimming Pool Scum on the Surface
How to Convert a Bathtub Into a Fish Pond
How to Convert a Bathtub Into a Fish Pond
How to Kill Sea Grass
How to Kill Sea Grass
Problems With Pool Ionizers
Problems With Pool Ionizers
How to Clear Up an Above Ground Pool That Is Cloudy
How to Clear Up an Above Ground Pool That Is Cloudy
How to Make Your Pool Sparkle
How to Make Your Pool Sparkle
Water Softeners for Pool Water
Water Softeners for Pool Water
How to Use HTH Chlorinating Granules
How to Use HTH Chlorinating Granules
Water in My Outdoor Fountain Keeps Turning Green
Water in My Outdoor Fountain Keeps Turning Green
Is Black Algae in a Swimming Pool Harmful?
Is Black Algae in a Swimming Pool Harmful?
How to Control Water Hardness in Swimming Pools
How to Control Water Hardness in Swimming Pools
How to Remove Tannin From a Pond
How to Remove Tannin From a Pond
How to Get Rid of Water Striders in a Swimming Pool
How to Get Rid of Water Striders in a Swimming Pool
How to Stop a Kid's Pool From Going Green
How to Stop a Kid's Pool From Going Green
Garden Guides
×