Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I'm about to cut my IBC to use as a fish tank and was wondering if it was necessary to cut the entire top off as what everyone else seems to be doing.
I was thinking to cut only 2/3 - just after the centre cap, to give the fish some shelter and also less area for leaves to fall in as it will be outdoors.
will a 2/3 opening get in the way of maintenance? opinions?

most people who cut the tops right off do that as they are using the top as a GB...

it would be better to leave 2/3rds of it there for strength etc.

Cut a hole big enough that you can get a net in and move it around easily, so leave maybe a 200mm rim on the top if the IBC

I've seen some systems with very small openings in the top so I think what your suggesting would be fine. Our fish transporter just has a big square cut out in the top where the centre cap used to be, probably 40cm x 40cm, this would be fins to use long term as a fish tank as well, we have no problem scooping fish out of it.

Or like this

I removed the top to make GB's and thus expose the whole surface area. In my opinion this was a good choice as it does not matter what you plan now you'll want maximum ease of access at some point in time.

Good luck and we are looking forward to some pics.

Good point wal, but you could also trim the top of at any time. IMHO leaving a lip (no matter how big) is always best because if the
Extra strength/ volume afforded