About
Tucked into Thousand Oaks, Tat Tropical Illusion has built a loyal following among Ventura County fish keepers thanks to its wide selection of both freshwater and saltwater livestock and consistently clean, well-maintained display tanks. Customers regularly remark that the fish here look healthy and vibrant, and many report their purchases thriving for years — a testament to the store's behind-the-scenes care and quarantine practices. The saltwater section draws genuine admiration, with beautifully set-up reef tanks that catch the eye of even casual visitors.
On the freshwater side, the store stocks everything from bettas and red-tailed sharks to guppy grass and other live plants. One longtime customer shared that the store even accepted two outgrown red-tailed sharks and traded guppy grass in return — the kind of neighborly fish-keeping exchange that defines a great local shop. Another family credits the store with launching their betta breeding journey, starting with a single male they named Finny who eventually fathered three batches of fry.
Beyond livestock, Tat Tropical Illusion carries tanks, food, equipment, and coral supplies. Staff members — particularly the knowledgeable team at the counter — earn consistent praise for patience and willingness to walk newcomers through complete aquarium setups. Multiple reviewers describe being guided through their first tank purchase with genuine care and detailed explanations.
A word of honest context: the owner has a reserved, quiet personality that some visitors misread as rudeness. Regulars learn quickly that he's simply not a greeter — he minds his own business unless asked directly for help, and longtime customers have come to appreciate that low-pressure approach. If you prefer being left to browse in peace, you'll fit right in.
The store also operates an online presence through eBay for dry goods. Phone responsiveness can be hit-or-miss, so visiting in person is your best bet. For Thousand Oaks and greater Ventura County aquarists seeking healthy fish, real plants, and solid equipment under one roof, Tat Tropical Illusion delivers where it matters most — in the tanks.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationOnline StoreTank Setup
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Wide variety of both freshwater and saltwater fish with notably healthy livestock
- Clean, well-maintained display tanks throughout the store
- Patient staff who walk customers through complete aquarium setups
- Live plants including guppy grass and real aquatic plants for bettas
- Saltwater coral section for reef enthusiasts
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Have a very hard time getting a hold of the store. I call it different times on different days and it seems like the phone always rings and rings and rings and nobody ever answers”
— Dana LaMonica2.02 months ago“Wow, this store has everything and the tanks are very clean. You can find fish that aren't available in many places. I would definitely return. The girl who helped us was super nice.🩷🐠”
— Alessa V5.02 months ago“The BEST fish store around. I have been a customer for several years and yes, the owner seems to be in a bad mood / rude, but he is just reserved and quiet. I like that they don't pester you and follow you around. For those that say he does not say hello, try saying hello first maybe. Never assume he is rude and take it personally.....it is just his nature...He has always said "have a nice day" when I leave, so I have never experienced this "rudeness." What really matters is that they take care of the fish and have a well kept / clean business. They even took 2 red tailed sharks that outgrew my tanks and gave me tons of guppy grass in exchange. All the fish I have purchased from this business have lived well and remained healthy. I understand that not feeling welcomed in a store is a turn off, but just realize that it is not personal.....he is just quiet and minds to himself unless you ask him for help. His staff are always very nice and the tall caucasian guy with dark hair is extremely helpful, pleasant, knowledgable and professional.”
— ray armstrong5.03 months ago“Tat, You are incredible 😍 You started us on a journey of how special owning a tank and fishes are. We bought our first Beta & named him Finny. I speak to him every day & he dances for me ❤️ We added a female Beta, Fanny, & every one said he will kill her. We now have 3 sets of babies & get so much joy from our Fishies ❤️ Blessings to you & your staff!”
— LIsa Espindola5.03 months ago“Great service, prices and selection.”
— Bobby DeFelice5.04 months ago“I was very pleased. They had great patience and explained everything completely as I was looking for a complete setup and a new tank to fit my needs. If I could give them more stars I would give lots more. This will be my place to go for my aquarium needs .”
— Henry Grod5.06 months ago“Great place to buy beta faces the very helpful they will get you the best equipment they save my fish’s life”
— Worldwindcomicsinc5.08 months ago“Very nice fish store.”
— Mr J5.09 months ago“Been buying my fish here forever. Highly recommend”
— Kellie N5.010 months ago“Great place”
— Frankie Soto5.011 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (805) 495-3220 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Tat Tropical Illusion.