About
Fish N Tanks has carved out a loyal following in Bakersfield as one of only two independent fish stores in town, and owner Pat is a big reason why. Reviewers consistently praise his willingness to go the extra mile — from helping customers cycle new tanks by providing established water, to honestly advising newcomers to wait two weeks before adding fish when their setup isn't ready. That kind of integrity builds trust in a hobby where bad advice can be costly.
The store's strongest suit is its freshwater selection. Cichlid keepers in particular will find a reliable rotation of stock, including demasoni and devil cichlids, while discus enthusiasts have found quality specimens at fair prices. Oddball and rare fish make regular appearances — one reviewer marveled at a massive Red Tail Catfish on display — and the store receives frequent new shipments to keep inventory fresh.
Live plants and aquatic supplies round out the freshwater side, offering options you won't find at Petco or PetSmart. Saltwater and coral availability has been more inconsistent in recent years, with longtime reef hobbyists noting a decline in marine stock. Those looking for a dedicated reef selection may need to temper expectations, though the store does carry saltwater fish and corals on occasion.
Pat will also take special orders, though communication about unfulfilled orders has frustrated some customers. One unique perk is the store's fish trade-in program. Customers can bring back fish that have outgrown their tanks — even fish not originally purchased there — and receive store credit, which keeps the selection diverse and gives hobbyists a responsible rehoming option.
Betta keepers just starting out have found the staff patient and genuinely educational, walking them through compatible tankmates and setup essentials. The store also offers custom glass lids and pond supplies, though the custom lid experience has been hit or miss based on reviews. For Bakersfield aquarists, Fish N Tanks remains the go-to independent shop — competitively priced, community-minded, and run by people who genuinely love fishkeeping.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Pat personally assists customers and takes special fish orders
- Strong freshwater selection with emphasis on cichlids, discus, and rare oddball species
- Fish trade-in and exchange program — even for fish bought elsewhere
- Staff will advise against premature purchases until tanks are properly cycled
- Competitive pricing well below big-box pet stores
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Good spot in town to visit if you’re looking for freshwater fish. Now if you’re looking for saltwater fish and coral you will be very disappointed. This place use to have a nice variety of saltwater fish and now you’d be very lucky on going and finding some saltwater fish. I don’t even bother to look at the Facebook post anymore. You’ll have better luck on driving out to LA and buying your fish out there. Which leads me to the ordering process if you order fish and they don’t come in you won’t know because they don’t give you a call to let you know they didn’t come in. Maybe it’s just me and I’m just one of the unlucky ones but it’s happens on more than one occasion. You’ll have to go into the store and look for yourself. It’s awesome if they came in but if they didn’t you just waisted your time. Other than that Customer service in store and fish health are great and again the selection for freshwater fish is good.”
— Bakersfield Reviews2.04 weeks ago“Passionate fish keepers that specialize in exotic fish. Come here to look at fish, leave learning tribal knowledge you cant find anywhere else. Wish I could come back every weekend!”
— Erin Marshall (theenvisoneer)5.0a month ago“Low stock on most freshwater fish.”
— Libby Hawkins3.0Edited 7 months ago“Great customer service”
— Tina Hughes5.011 months ago“Very good service and very healthy fish 🐠”
— Diosis Martinez5.0a year ago“Nice guys fish are at a reasonable price corals are hit and miss.”
— willis higdon4.0a year ago“Best fish store in town.”
— Nick Corona5.0a year ago“They Always have a good selection of cichlids . I been coming here for years , I always find what I want for my aquarium.”
— Isaac Sanchez5.0a year ago“Went by to pick up a few things for a new tank I’m setting up. they even helped me take some water so I can cycle my tank quicker. Will be coming back”
— E E5.0a year ago“Best place in town”
— TUFF CARPET5.02 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (661) 829-7009 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fish N Tanks.