Abstract: A suction strainer is provided for use in a pumping system of the type wherein a suction line provides fluid flow to a pump and wherein the suction strainer is connected to the suction line for removing solids or aquatic life from a flow of fluid being drawn into the suction line, The suction strainer comprises a hydrofoil and an internal conduit. The hydrofoil is formed with opposed filtering surfaces having apertures formed for the passage of fluid to an internal volume. The internal conduit is formed with a surface extending the length of the conduit and having apertures formed for the passage of fluid from the internal volume of the hydrofoil to the internal volume of the conduit.