I built my parents a pond while in high school. I used a shovel but wouldnt do that again. Save your back and get a bobcat or a small backhoe. For lining we used a thick plastic/rubbery liner found that we got from Water Garden Gems outside of San Antonio. They were more than helpful back then and besides not being maintained the pond is still going today. Also the liner has been in the direct sun for almost 10 years now, without any signs of wear. I am very impressed by that stuff.