Tucked into Oakland with its own parking lot, Bay Bridge Aquarium is a throwback to the old-school Bay Area fish shops that once dotted the region — spacious, well-stocked, and run by someone who genuinely lives the hobby. Owner Michael Wand is the kind of fishkeeper who will spend real time with you, breaking down advanced aquarium concepts in a way that actually sticks, whether you're setting up your first 5-gallon betta tank or hunting for rare freshwater species you can't find anywhere else in the Bay. The store's freshwater selection is where it truly shines.
Reviewers consistently praise the variety of hard-to-find fish alongside staples like pearl gourami and bettas, all kept in healthy, well-maintained systems. Michael personally quarantines incoming livestock, and customers report minimal losses after bringing fish home — a testament to the care that happens behind the scenes. Live plants are also part of the mix, and staff are happy to recommend the right greenery for your setup.
What sets Bay Bridge apart is the consultation-level service baked into every visit. One customer came in before even receiving their betta, worried about an unregulated heater, and walked out with a preset 77-degree unit and a whole new understanding of proper care. Another found Michael patient enough to field a friend's barrage of aquarium maintenance questions without rushing.
First-time tank owners have credited the shop with guiding them through everything from cycling to choosing the right vacuum. The shop does carry some saltwater offerings, though the freshwater side is clearly the main draw and the inventory that keeps regulars coming back. Dry goods, accessories, and fish food round out the selection.
The space itself is larger than most local fish stores, giving tanks room to breathe and making browsing a genuine pleasure. For Oakland aquarists tired of driving all over the Bay searching for quality livestock and real expertise, Bay Bridge Aquarium delivers both under one roof.
Tiffany Rosillo
it looks nothing like the pictures no saltwater fish available no coral for the only two fish left $300?! Looks nothing like the photos it’s all freshwater and the place is all messed up and yeah that’s all I have to say
Cedar
2 reviews
awesome little place!! i got my first betta in a long time from here and he was in great health. they have great setups and a wonderful variety of fish! the employees are also very helpful with every topic, and are very knowledgable! would highly recommend for anyone in the hobby
Sarah Shores
2 reviews
I got my very first aquarium a year and a half ago. Bay Bridge Aquarium helped me figure out the best ingredients for starting my tank, which fish thrive in what environment, plants for my tank, how to keep the fish healthy and what size vacuum to buy. Every employee has been knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I will continue to shop here for my aquarium needs.
R Malla
140 reviews
I was at this shop a few weeks ago with my son. He really liked the pearl gourami, and the price on the tank said $14.99. Expensive, but fair enough — we decided to get it. When the cashier rang it up, it came out to $24.35. I told him the posted price was $14.99 and asked why it rang up so much higher. He went to check, came back, and admitted the posted price was wrong. He apologized for the mistake but refused to honor the posted price. Honestly, I almost walked away, but my son was really attached, so I bought it anyway. I’m sharing this so other dads (and parents in general) know what to expect. I’m not asking for an apology or a refund — just hoping they do better for the next customer. Thanks.
Brian Lum
6 reviews
Had the pleasure of checking out Bay Bridge Aquarium. Michael the owner is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Definitely a real hobbyist and has a passion for all things fish related. Like a lot of people I was a bit reluctant to head over to Oakland, but like often times; the preconception bias is unjust. The shop is larger than most (a real throw back to the old school Bay Area fish keeping days) and has a parking lot for customers too. The shop itself is stocked well with many hard to find rarer fish as well as the common staples. All the fish are healthy and properly quarantined as well. I did some damage that day but glad to say I haven’t had any losses. I definitely will be a regular here and it’s vital to support your LFS to keep this hobby alive.
Leilani Kapiolani
231 reviews
I have been looking for rare fresh water fish and I have been literally all over. Finally I was lucky to find what I was looking for at Baybridge aquarium. I brought a friend of mine who had many questions about aquarium maintenance the owner Michael Wand is amazing!! He has vast knowledge and was very kind and patient. I cant recommend this place enough and I will be back!
Gerard Artesona
10 reviews
The owner is knowledgeable, friendly, and has a very unique selection. He made explaining some more advanced concepts of aquarium keeping quite interesting and accessible, and was able to make useful suggestions for persons of different skill levels. The fish all seemed healthy, cared for, and happy as well.
jonnette lee
6 reviews
The guy that helped my husband and I was super informative. He helped us understand a lot of things pertaining to helping fish thrive and live longer. I thought he was really helpful and nice.
Caroline Elfving
16 reviews
So helpful I bought plants there to decorate my aquarium .. I kept thinking I’d kill my betta fish i had ordered I just had a 5 gallon kit I ordered .. heater had no way to regulate .. before I got my fish I went there and was pleasantly surprised about care plants and food .. he also turned me on to a small heater that stays at 77 degrees .. my Betta is very happy .. :)
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (877) 809-4067 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Bay Bridge Aquarium.
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2400 Filbert Street
February 8, 2026
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