1/4" coated mesh is what i make my z traps from. I hand feed my smb fry 3 times a day. I have 4 grow out ponds with different size fish. Ponds with smaller numbers of fish are a little larger. Average size 2024 fry class are around 3 to 3.5" with the small end around 2 " with some shooters up to 5". In the last week they seem to have really filled out. Very healthy looking. Pretty happy.