I've had a pond for 20 years. It's easy. The biggest problem is going small. Go big, with a larger pump and waterfall. Maintence is the other guys problem, but building your pond correctly is everything. Small pumps get clogged fast and weekly maintence is needed. Check with locals to see how deep you can go. You will have a critter problem in FL, but deeper pond in the middle will give your fish a break. 12" to 18" sides for plants. Ponds are the best pets. I'm cleaning 2 X a year, and feeding them Cherios. I run the hose for a water change. Use a liner. No tubs. No turtles, no bamboo plants. Use a shady spot to build. U/V not necessary. My filter is behind waterfall with filter socks and bio-balls(wiffle balls). Use a filter mat above balls to hold them down. A combination of fish and plants with the waterfall make it all happen. When you dig, try to dig enough and square. Don't over dig, and put loose soil back in, your pond will collapse. Use some cinder blocks to form if necessary when building the waterfall. Waterproof foam will stop your leaks with rocks. Have a question, ask. I'm as maintence free as possible.
