DIY Skimmer (sort of )

[Ronfire]

I like the looks and function of the Helux skimmer.The Helux Skimmer is a floating weir and a basket that it float/ moves in.I have not built it yet but plan to buy the floating weir and basket that fit together for 32.99 and build that into a 55 Gallon drum.
All you then need is a plate on a lip in the drum and a proper sized hole in it to fit the screen, cut an opening in the side of the drum and mount to the pond. No need to try to build a floating door system.

 

[IPA]

The Oasis AquaSkim is an inpond skimmer that works like the Helix. I've seen some DIY similar using PVC. I figured instead of a "box" I could build an inpond separation type of box to mount the Helix type of wier in. I did find out even though Helix and the design are more fish safe than flapper weir doors fish can still be caught in them with bad results.

 

[audioenvy]

That would definitely work so long as you can install a plate similar to what's in the Helix so that the water is forced into the hole where the basket and weir go.

I have a Helix skimmer and it seems like it would be pretty hard for any fish over a few inches in length to get inside the basket.