We've always stayed away from cats in our tanks. they get big, and eat alot. protect the bass fry at all cost is my theory. Personally I'm not too big a fan of perch either, for the same reason as the crappie, but then again, the big bass need something to eat too. The last time we built a tank that size(3 ac), I went and bought about 20 doz shad. I've done it a couple more times since then (3 yrs ago), and that tank has tons of baitfish, and is easily the best tank we've got. that gets a little pricey, but whatever you stock it with needs something to eat. Do yall have ag extension agencies up there? They have TONS of info on most subjects. sounds awesome, good luck