neighborhood fishing

Question
Hi Expert!

I recently moved to a neighborhood in central North Carolina with a small pond. I've seen people fly fishing, so i know at least there is something in there to catch.

I have no clue what type of fish are in the pond, what type of bait I should be using, what size hook, what time of day to go, or how I could spot the hot areas which fish might like.

So, I realize this is a broad question, but basically, what are your best tips for everyday neighborhood pond fishing?  

Answer
Hi Chris,

Well, you could go the easy route and ask the people that you see fishing what that are catching.

Otherwise, start a search yourself.  I'm guessing that the pond is probably full of panfish and Bass.  Start out light and work your way up.  A small bit of worm, wax worm, cricket, on a small hook (size 8 or 10# and an ultralight rod #4# test) will find the panfish.  Move up to a small crappie sized minnow and you will see if there are any crappies and probably catch some small bass.  Then move up to a medium spinning rod with 8# line and start looking for some bigger bass.  There may not be any giants in that lake but I bet there are a few 3-4 pounders.  A 4" plastic worm is a good size for ponds.  A #9 floating Rapala is also a good search lure.  You can crank it or twitch it on the surface.  

Like all fishing, try early or late in the day for the most consistent action.  Look for cover.  Weeds, lily pads, fallen trees, docks are the best places to start.  

Hope this helps.  Those little neighborhood ponds can be real gems.  It should be fun.

Good fishing,

Marc