Mike: I don't think color black proves zip ties are UV resistant - Harbor Freight black ties break within a year when in the sun. A person probably wants to buy ties that specifically state UV resistant for outdoor use. Utilitech ties at Lowes are good https://www.lowes.com/pd/Utilitech-800-Pack-8-in-Nylon-Cable-Ties/999971174

My first traps had the center bait enclosure out of the same 1/2" mesh. I had to go back and line them with window screen to keep the dog food from falling/floating out of it. Later ones were built with 1/4" mesh. I find the best trapping luck when the fish are able to get to some of the food,but not too fast. Otherwise they spend time trying to get out.

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