About
Tucked into Scotts Valley, Fintastic Fish is drawing freshwater enthusiasts from as far as San Jose and the Bay Area — and they keep coming back. This small, independent shop run by owner Devon has earned a devoted following through an unwavering commitment to fish health and a carefully curated selection of live plants and freshwater species. The tanks here are immaculately maintained, and it shows in the livestock.
Reviewers consistently describe the fish as happy and healthy, with a rotating variety that keeps regulars coming back to see what's new. The live plant selection is a particular standout — customers rave about vibrant, high-quality aquatic plants that rival dedicated planted-tank specialists. For goldfish keepers, Devon's expertise in fancy goldfish care, including orandas, is a genuine draw.
The betta selection also earns repeat mention from visitors. What sets Fintastic Fish apart is the depth of knowledge behind the counter. Devon, described by one customer as "a brilliant scientist of all things needed to be a successful fish keeper," takes time with every visitor to discuss care, troubleshoot problems, and share genuine enthusiasm for the hobby.
The staff follows her lead — friendly, patient, and clearly passionate about freshwater aquatics. Multiple reviewers mention having meaningful conversations about their setups, not just quick transactions. The store stocks frozen foods like brine shrimp alongside aquarium supplies, and while the footprint is small, nothing feels cramped or neglected.
Prices are reasonable, which customers appreciate given the quality of the livestock and plants on offer. Fintastic Fish has built something rare: a local fish store with the feel of a community hub. Customers who discover it tend to stop shopping anywhere else.
The drive from the greater Bay Area is one that dozens of hobbyists now make willingly and regularly, which says everything about what Devon and her team have built in this Santa Cruz County shop.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Vibrant selection of high-quality live aquatic plants
- Exceptionally healthy and well-maintained freshwater fish
- Owner Devon provides in-depth fishkeeping expertise and personalized consultation
- Draws loyal customers from San Jose and the Bay Area
- Reasonable prices at a clean, well-organized independent shop
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Healthy, well kept fish. And an amazing selection of aquatic plants. My new favorite shop”
— Alexi del Rosario5.03 weeks ago“Clean facility and happy fish. The owners are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. Their fish are healthy and great selection Of Life plants as well. I will not go to any other Fish store again. This place is incredible. Small but great.”
— Karen Luxon5.0a month ago“It's nice to have a small independent pet store to support. Fintastic Fish has done a great job of providing quality plants and fish. Exceptional service and reasonable prices are why I'll be back again.”
— Paul Carrubba5.0a month ago“a FINtastic store! The folks that own it are awesome, very knowledgable and helpful.”
— Kenneth Westphal5.0a month ago“The fish here are always so happy and taken care of, some of the most well treated I've seen in a store. Wide selection and varieties always changing of healthy fish and plants. Devon and all of the staff here are super kind, knowledgeable and always happy to help.Since starting to come here I've become a regular and am highly unlikely to purchase fish or supplies elsewhere. So incredibly happy to have a store like this in the area, but honestly fintastic fish would be worth a drive.”
— Alysha Galotta5.0a month ago“Well worth the trip to Scott’s Valley from the Bay Area. We are Fintastic Fish 🐟 Fans! Our favorite, most reliable source for healthy and hearty fish friends. The owner, Devon is a brilliant scientist of all things needed to be a successful fish keeper. She is genuinely there to help. We can’t imagine the fish hobby without the friendly Fintastic staff and community. Supporting a small business is a added plus;)”
— Jill Smith5.03 months ago“My wife and I stopped in to see what they had to offer and we fell in love. This staff is super friendly and very knowledgeable. The livestock is amazing and the plants are vibrant. We will make the drive again to visit this gem!”
— Gabe Talavera5.03 months ago“I want to support LFS in the area and drove from San Jose to this wonderful spot. Got frozen brine shrimp and stickers as well as chatted about my orandas. Fancy goldfish care is way harder than it should be. I highly recommend this spot for your aquarium supplies or for high quality fresh water fish. I enjoyed their stock but have no need for them at this time.”
— a t5.03 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (831) 316-3424 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fintastic Fish.