Seeking advice on a "pond blind"

I am planning on putting in a wildlife pond on the farm. I have been trying to think of good ways to build in a permanent blind as part of it that would be unobtrusive and allow for photography at the waterline.

Since I plan to stay here for a long time (hopefully) I am willing to invest some to make it attractive and most importantly effective.

Anyone have any great ideas?

Any other pond tips would also be appreciated. Now is the planning stage!

Peter

Sink box. Could be as simple as a plastic 55 gallon barrel sunk into the shore, and weighted down with concrete floor. For above ground blinds, do a search on "duck blinds." If you want to get fancy, add a propane tank and a propane heater.


Kent in SD

Make sure blind is not facing south !

as the winds and seasons change you will want to be able to adjust your position so as not to be detected by the wildlife as they come up to the pond..some natural/native vegetation planted in different locations around the pond and some good camo clothing and maybe some netting..good luck..

I like the idea of the plastic barrel. Lots of different sizes available as plastic tanks are used for maple syrup collection. Wouldn't it have to be removed for winter if you are in an area where the pond or lake would freeze?

The problem with any fixed blind is that the position of the sun changes radically over the course of the year. In addition, you don't know in advance where animals will be bathing and drinking. For a low angle, you can just lie prone, in camo clothing as John suggests, or under a bag blind (my preference). For greater concealment you could lie prone in a coffin-type blind, which could be made from 2 x 2s and plywood or be as simple as an old refrigerator box.

I appreciate the suggestions. I think though that two permanent blinds located strategically in the SE and SW edges of the pond would in fact cover most circumstances and light. The portable blind could of course always be used if needed.

I think some type of sunken structure makes the most sense with an opening just above the waterline. I just have to figure out the best way to construct one.

Another thing you might consider is a covered way to enter & exit, so birds can't see you come & go. Could be some rows of corn planted, or some kind of above ground tunnel.


Kent in SD