About
Strictly Fish in Lakewood, California has built a loyal following thanks to its clean, well-organized layout and a diverse inventory that spans both freshwater and saltwater species. Walk in and you'll immediately notice how easy it is to navigate—tanks are tidy, fish are clearly visible, and the store has a polished feel that sets it apart from cluttered competitors. Reviewers consistently call it one of the cleanest fish stores they've ever visited.
The cichlid selection is a major draw, ranging from African varieties to Tanganyika species, and the store runs bundle deals that make it tempting to walk out with far more fish than you planned. One visitor stopped by on a whim and left with green neon tetras and strawberry rasboras at prices that undercut other local shops. Platys, goldfish, and mystery snails round out the freshwater livestock, while corals and saltwater fish fill out the marine side.
For food, Strictly Fish stocks what might be the largest selection of Extreme (Xtreme) pellets and flakes you'll find locally, along with Hikari Gold and other staples. Equipment-wise, they carry Fluval parts and a broad range of supplies, though some reviewers note that pricing on accessories can run higher than online retailers—worth checking before you buy. Staff member Marcus gets singled out by name for his patience in answering detailed questions about individual species, and owner Scott is described as approachable and down to earth.
The store also offers tank maintenance services, making it a one-stop resource for hobbyists who want ongoing support. They carry live plants as well, mostly low-tech varieties suited to beginners. The store's resident dog is a bonus—a sweet, friendly presence that adds to the relaxed atmosphere.
With competitive bundle pricing, a spotless environment, and strong freshwater and saltwater inventory, Strictly Fish has earned its reputation as a go-to destination in the Lakewood area.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- CichlidsLive PlantsCoralsGoldfishTetrasInvertebratesShrimpLivebearersFish FoodDry GoodsAquarium Equipment
- Services
- Tank MaintenanceConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Exceptionally clean and well-organized store layout
- Strong cichlid selection with bundle deals on multiple fish
- Huge selection of Extreme/Xtreme pellets and flakes
- Both freshwater and saltwater fish, plants, and corals
- Tank maintenance services available
From keepers
Customer reviews
“It's the cleanest and most organized fish store I've ever seen, and the employee who helped us was super friendly.🐠🌱⭐️”
— Alessa V5.0a week ago“Very neat store!”
— AmberJo Bolden5.0a week ago“This is a fantastic fish store with an excellent selection and great prices. They have a wide variety of fish—especially cichlids—and everything looks healthy and well cared for. My favorite part is their HUGE selection of Extreme pellets. Definitely my go-to spot! 😁”
— Kahawana Sauray4.0a month ago“Great staff very helpful”
— Jason Lopez5.02 months ago“Very knowledgeable and friendly”
— meg howe5.03 months ago“Love the store and they have great fishes but man today I went in to buy some fluva screw accessories for my fx6 and I got rapes at 14.99 each and i bought 5 wish I looked on Amazon the have 6 for 24.99 not each but all together.”
— Hector2.04 months ago“I purchased 5 quality platys and some Xtreme flakes. I am satisfied with the service I received. The worker answered all of my questions and was very knowledgable. The fish after one month are doing great!!!!”
— Al Ponce5.07 months ago“stopped by heading back from the aquarium (i’m from out of town). Loved the layout of the store, it was tidy and all the fish were easy to walk around and see. They had great bundle deals on numerous fish that I ended up buying 15. will definitely be back when i’m in the area.”
— Javier Perez5.08 months ago“Absolutely the worst customer experience of my life from the owners themselves… have spent at least 5k at the store over the years. Was sold product guaranteed to be compatible by the longtime merchandiser, was eaten, not compatible, died (he stated Tanganyika cichlids would not eat the $40 large shrimp I bought) . Owners told me to go shop somewhere else when I asked for some type of return. No accountability. I suggest 7 seas in San Pedro for better prices, better customer service. 1707 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731. As a long time customer, for convenience only, don’t waste your time at this place. They’re only about sales, they don’t care about you. Very clear”
— Patrick McEveety1.08 months ago“Wide selection of supplies, plants and fish. The health of the fish can vary quite a bit though so it's still important to look closely to make sure what you buy is as healthy as possible.”
— Emily Torres4.09 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (562) 421-9106 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Strictly Fish.