Ponds, artificial bodies of water with an average depth of less than 5 metres and area between a few to several tens hectares, are used for fish breeding. The author presents the current carp breeding system which has a long history in Poland. The significance of ponds for water management is also discussed. Ponds act as water stores waxing and waning according to the amount of rain. Ponds also control the ground water level in their adjacent areas and prevent excessive soil drying. They can also be used for treating agricultural waste.