Keeping Koi out of the skimmer??

[STLPONDS]

I have a customer that his Koi (about 7"-8") keeps getting into his skimmer. Luckily I show up when it is about to bite the dust and save it. I can see little ones getting caught but what can I do to keep the bigger (stronger) koi out of the skimmers harm?

[gary1328]

There should be a debris net and then a filter sleeve before the pump which should stop the fish from getting mashed.

[mckeeland]

also does the skimmer have a flapper like on a pool skimmer? this helps keep the bigger ones out, however, once they get in, they cant get out. if they keep the pond level up to 3/4" from the top of the skimmer they should not have a problem if they do they swim out. it is when the pond level is low that the pressure of the rushing water pins them in the basket. we always remove the flapper, but we install auto fills that keep the pond level up to the top.

[STLPONDS]

They don't get pass the basket.

This time the water level was low, but the last time it was good. I remove all flaps so they can get out, but some don't make it I guess.

[cgland]

Just make sure you keep the lid/cap stone on. I lost (2) 18" Japanese Koi this year.

Chris

[Evening Star Lighting]

I lost my favorite 18" yellow Japanese Koi last winter when he got his body stuck in the skimmer too! The skimmer ran empty and he died.

[STLPONDS]

It sounds like it is part of the pond game. Mark it on the "That sucks list".

Leaks
Koi in the skimmer
Shelf rock
Algae

A lot have been saying they are chasing food which makes sense.

[mdvaden]

And if you think this is challenging, pet birds like parrots are maybe even trickier to keep out of trouble, since they should be allowed out of their cages.

I thought I'd like to have Koi, but have put that idea to rest for a while.

Between adding trees and a water feature, the landcape became "super-charged" with small wild birds visiting. Almost as interesting.

I found trees and a small water feature to far exceed edible landscaping for birds, provided a feeder is added.

Odd thing, I like gold fish better than Koi in most cases.

[MuirviewJosh]

Gutter Guard sold at home depot should take care of the issue w/ the fish, but creates a new dillema if there are trees around that shed leaves into the pond.

[landscaperbob]

Turn your skimmer off when you feed and you won't promote them going in. There is only one reason they are going in - food. However I have seen some "popular" females seeking refuge.