Concord Aquarium

Concord Aquarium is a family-owned tropical fish store in Concord, California, that has earned a devoted following across the Bay Area — and for good reason. Originally built by longtime owner Steve, the shop is now run by his daughter Ginger, who has carried forward the same passion and deep knowledge that made this store a local institution for over 30 years. What sets Concord Aquarium apart is its signature self-serve format: customers grab a bucket and net their own fish from the tanks.

It sounds unusual, but reviewers overwhelmingly love it. Families bring their kids to experience the thrill of selecting and catching their own fish, and hobbyists appreciate the control it gives them in choosing exact specimens. It's a concept you won't find at many other shops in the area.

The store's strength is freshwater — a wide, healthy selection of community fish, predatory species, fancy guppies, flower horns, German Blue Rams, Dwarf Pea Puffers, mollies you won't find elsewhere in the Bay Area, and more. Live aquatic plants are well-stocked, and there's a solid inventory of shrimp and frogs for those building diverse tanks. While the store is predominantly freshwater, there is occasionally a saltwater tank available as well.

Equipment, substrate, décor, and fish food round out the product offering. The shop itself is clean, well-organized, and open in layout, making it easy to browse the tanks. Pricing draws mixed opinions — some find it very fair, especially with a popular 2-for-1 deal on select fish, while others feel it runs slightly high.

But the quality and health of the livestock consistently earn praise. Perhaps the biggest draw is the personal touch. Steve and Ginger are known for their patience, willingness to answer every question, and honest advice — whether it's helping a first-timer cycle a new tank or steering an experienced keeper toward the right species.

People drive from as far as Vacaville for the experience. Concord Aquarium is the kind of local fish store the hobby needs more of.