How should I set up a fry tank?

Kim, if youre here, please answer?br
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I have 6 fry i've had for about a week in a bottle with holes in a 10 gallon. I have 6 bucks. I have an empty 5 gallon and an old 10-15 gallon filter. Must you cycle a fry tank before adding the fry? The filter I have uses cartridges, but I want to use something else instead. I was wondering if I could use a plastic scrubbing pad, and a household sponge [wrapped in linen], and carbon wrapped in cheesecloth in that filter instead of the cartridges. Thats nearly what the cartridges are, anywho. I dont think the current will be to strong will it? I dont believe Its an adjustable filter.