DIY Inlet strainer for canister

[gambs]

I recently got a Rena filstar canister. It does not have the strainer for the inflow so if I put fish in there, they will get sucked up. Anyone have any suggestions on how I can make one myself? The inflow pipe is about 1/2in wide. I already built my own outflow spray bar using pvc. I thought about using one of those old hanging baskets that used to be in dishwashers, where you put the stuff that cleans the dishes in but apparently they don't sell those anymore. Any suggestions?

[AHP]

I think I saw something on another website were someone used zip ties and wove them through some pvc. That might work.