Blocking fish etc from leaf catcher

[Jerry]

I use an improvised screen, part of a plastic plant flat. It has worked well in the past. But I now have string algae. It has never been a big deal in the past. Now the screen is quickly covered with the stuff.
Naturally the water flow slows way down.  I am forced to get down and remove the screen and clean the leaf catcher. I hate to admit it, but what was once so easy is now a bitch.
Any suggestions?

[Indiana Karen]

Sorry about your troubles.  Usually when I add new fish, they get hung up in the leaf catcher, but after a while they get it figured out.  Do you have one of those handy, dandy kneeling benches?  Keeps your knees clean too! 

I'm looking forward to seeing fish.  They have been under the ice and snow for way too long.

Karen

[Jerry]

Yes Karen, I have a little green pad to kneel on.  I guess I better chek the leaf catcher more often.  It is easier than the priming pot and most of the time that's where the problem is solved.  Thanks for commiserating.
And thanks for spell check

[ponderer]

A toilet brush works great  for string algae

[Jerry]

Yes it does. I have one on a long bamboo pole.  Funny , is most never get string algae, but I do now.  Wen the algae vanishes the cage over the leaf catcher will not get so loaded with gunk.

[Kittyzee]

My string algae clears up once the pond gets covered with lily pads and water hyacinth, but until then I do what everyone does: remove it by hand or toilet brush! I throw it in the flower beds and put it around plants, why NOT use it as fertilizer?

[Jerry]

Wow LuAnn I just asked that question , thanks. String algae. Has not been a problem for me, but now I am devoid of plants thanks to koi.  No more koi!  Plants very soon.