Fish Connection

Walking into Fish Connection in Durango feels less like entering a pet store and more like stepping into a private aquarium exhibit — or, as one young visitor put it, a zoo. Owner Bruce and his team have spent over 30 years building something genuinely special in this small mountain town, and it shows in every detail, from the steampunk-inspired wooden frames and gears adorning enclosures to a riparian saltwater tank complete with tiny mangroves. The freshwater selection is the main draw, with a broad range of tropical fish, fancy goldfish, and live aquatic plants that reviewers describe as beautiful and healthy.

There's a smaller but respectable saltwater section as well. Beyond fish, Fish Connection doubles as an exotic animal destination — chameleons, milk snakes, ball pythons, amphibians, and arachnids all inhabit carefully maintained bioactive terrariums that serve as both homes and inspiration for customers building their own setups. The terrarium plants, feeder insects, and supplies round out a surprisingly complete inventory for a store in the Four Corners region.

Staff members like Summer are frequently singled out for their ability to diagnose problems — whether it's an algae issue in a planted tank or a fancy goldfish in distress — and offer practical, informed solutions. One reviewer recounted calling in a panic about a sick goldfish and receiving calm, knowledgeable guidance over the phone. The team's understanding of bioactive setups and exotic husbandry puts them well ahead of any big-box alternative.

5, 5, and 10-gallon tanks all run $20), decorations, and food, though some customers note pricing runs high on certain items. That's the trade-off for shopping local in a town without competition — and most visitors find the quality of livestock, the stunning display tanks, and the depth of staff expertise more than justify the trip. For aquarium and reptile enthusiasts passing through Durango or living anywhere in the Four Corners, Fish Connection is a destination worth planning around.