About
Aquarium Specialties in Redding, California is the kind of store that earns devotion — and owner Carl has been earning it for decades. With over 30 years in the aquarium business in Shasta County, Carl previously ran a well-known shop on Victor and Cypress before eventually opening this current location, which longtime customers tracked down with relief. The store carries both freshwater and saltwater fish, with a noticeable lean toward freshwater tropical species, though the saltwater displays are described as incredible, featuring corals and marine fish that catch visitors off guard in a smaller shop.
What sets Aquarium Specialties apart from the big-box pet stores is the health of the livestock. Multiple reviewers note they've never brought home a sick fish from Carl's shop, and the tanks themselves are spotlessly maintained with no detectable fish smell — a telling sign of meticulous water quality management. Carl stocks species you won't find at chain stores, including koi and what customers describe as exotic and rare tropical fish.
If something specific isn't in stock, he's known for accommodating special orders on fish, corals, and other marine life at reasonable prices. The store is stocked with a solid selection of aquarium supplies and equipment alongside the livestock. Carl and his employee Jeff are consistently praised for their depth of knowledge — not just about fish compatibility and care, but about tank setup and water quality.
Carl has helped customers select and install new tanks, guided beginners through their first builds, and served as an ongoing resource for hobbyists at every level. Several reviewers mention calling him for advice well after their purchase. The space itself is compact but beautifully arranged, with display tanks that double as showpieces.
It's tucked away and easy to miss if you're not looking, and the hours are limited, so calling ahead is wise. But the consistent message across nearly 100 five-star reviews is clear: for healthy fish, fair prices, and genuinely knowledgeable service in Redding, this is where the aquarium community shops.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Carl brings 30+ years of aquarium expertise in Shasta County
- Exceptionally healthy fish — multiple reviewers report zero losses after purchase
- Carries both freshwater and saltwater fish, plus corals and koi
- Special orders available for rare and exotic species
- Immaculately clean tanks with no fish odor
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Lots of cool fish, friendly staff.”
— Nicole Eccles4.05 days ago“Carl is just an all around good dude. He knows his fish and treats everyone like a friend. Prices are good and staff is friendly.”
— Jamie Rouland5.0a week ago“I love it there. Fish are super healthy. Tons of aquarium supplies. This is the only place I'll go to.”
— Lorrie Ingram5.02 weeks ago“Been going to this store for 2 years at least now, and I won't shop anywhere else”
— Ryan Nugent5.0Edited 3 weeks ago“Great service. Nice selection.”
— Hilari Freeman5.0a month ago“Karl is very knowledgeable about everything and is a nice guy. Great store with very clean tanks. You can special order fish that you want.”
— Jeff Taylor5.03 months ago“Excellent fish store. Owner is very helpful and knowledgeable and he doesn't keep alot of the every day fish you see at the box stores. Also open to ordering special fish”
— michael hammer5.03 months ago“Great little shop with lots of merchandise. It's very nice and clean inside. The setups are beautiful!”
— Zay Dalton5.03 months ago“Fish store of all time ☆”
— Katsu_Images1885.0Edited 6 months ago“These guys are the best when it comes to aquariums, they really know their stuff, thanks for coming back out of retirement Carl don't know what I'd do if you weren't around to guide me in this hobby I love 💙🐠”
— Pamela Johnson5.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (530) 255-8777 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquarium Specialties.




