About
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.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationTank Setup
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Unique self-serve format where customers catch their own fish
- Family-owned for 30+ years, now run by founder's daughter Ginger
- Strong freshwater selection including fancy guppies, flower horns, German Blue Rams, and Dwarf Pea Puffers
- Live aquatic plants, shrimp, and frogs available
- Popular 2-for-1 fish deals
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Awesome”
— Nathan Van Dyke5.0a week ago“I'm glad Ginger took the baton from her dad and is continuing to supply the bay area with an amazing selection of fish. Always a great experience when I drop by. Selection is always great especially with the 2 for 1 deal!”
— Thu Danh5.0a week ago“I am very excited there is a family owned aquarium in our city. They have an excellent selection of aquatic decorations and a lot of different types of fish.”
— S C5.03 weeks ago“honestly one of the best aquarium stores I've shopped at. it's always fun to go in and see what new fish are available. while I was a little skeptical at first, I love the ability to catch my own fish. it ensures I get the fish I want and helps foster a greater sense of connection when I see them in my tank.”
— Emmy Ketvirtis5.03 weeks ago“A little bit expensive, but has good service and experience.”
— Cassady Boyer4.0a month ago“This place is awesome! The owner is a great guy and has always been willing to help with any questions I have. Great selection of fish, shrimp and other aquatic animals.”
— Tim Rantala5.0Edited a month ago“Catch the fish you like. They have large variety of fresh water fish, plants. Price is little at higher side.”
— R Malla4.02 months ago“Great selection of freshwater fish and plants.”
— Rick Bachman5.02 months ago“A lot of Selections of Aquarium fish and products”
— Amrio Balin4.03 months ago“Nice selection of fish. I wish they had salt water fish but if your lookokg for nice fresh water fish they have a good selection”
— 211 MOB5.04 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (925) 676-2626 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Concord Aquarium.