This is my plan.

[xdragonxb0i]

where the water is realy shallow, i would make it at least 6 inches deep, or your big fishes will never will be able to swim into that small part. not to mention there gonna be debris and poop stuck in that one spot.

 

[FuzzyPinkSeahorse]

Fish aren't supposed to be able to swim into the water garden. They will eat all of the plants.
And about the debris, I am not worried about it. I have no problem sticking my hands in the pond to clear it up.