A pool strainer basket insert system and method are contemplated in which a high porosity, coarse fibrous mass is inserted in a pool skimmer basket. Via optimization of the material properties of the fibrous mass and configuration such that approximately 50% of the fibrous mass is located above the waterline and 50% below the water line the problems of the prior art may be solved via the retaining properties of the fibrous mass, enabling insects and small organic matter to be retained and preventing their migration back to the main body of the pool.