You can but problem you will likely encounter is your filter methods are mechanical filter and you want to have mechanical , biological and chemical to manage proper water quality. The HOB and canisters will polish water and trap particles via the cartridge and media.
Chemical is what traps and breaks down chemical compounds such as feces and uneaten food often accomplished carbon and GFO
Biological is what utilizes the natural process of biological filtration such as use of ceramic nuggets, bio blocks, and microscopic bacteria surfaces.
Ammonia spike may have been very possible and often undetectable after the spike event.
Expect to service the canisters bi-weekly or less and addition of skimmer will help but ideal is to obtain and hang-on overflow and run to a sump.