About
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.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationWater Testing
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Over 30 years as a locally-owned staple in Durango's Four Corners region
- Steampunk-themed displays including a riparian saltwater tank with mangroves
- Strong freshwater selection with live aquatic plants and a smaller saltwater section
- Exotic animal inventory spanning reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids in bioactive terrariums
- Knowledgeable staff including Summer who provide hands-on consultation for tank and husbandry issues
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Good selection of fish of all kinds, nice and helpful employees, most of them. Awesome display tanks/setups.. Their African Cichlid selection is lacking. Fun place to visit.”
— Preston StPierre4.0a week ago“Great little aquarium shop packed to the gills with critters and supplies!”
— Jenner Johnson5.0Edited 3 weeks ago“Having been a staple for over 30 years, they truly know their stuff and have an incredible selection. It's rare to find a shop that houses healthy looking animals across the board, (reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, fish, etc.) Their environments are all carefully monitored and maintained. It's locally owned and far more knowledgeable than any big-box pet store. Easily the best in the region.”
— Destany Gaudet5.0a month ago“Great place to buy fish if you can get anyone to help you. Customer service is awful.”
— Amiee Kibel3.03 months ago“Descent store. So for fish awesome, but for reptile... They are ridiculously over priced. They are also the only place in town for snake food. I purchased there, very nice employees, but will be doing everything online for maintenance due to price, if it was even close to reasonable I would shop local, but more than double price for feeder rat.”
— Brian Betka4.03 months ago“The staff are great!! They understand ALL exotic pets and are so good at what they do. They know a lot!!! If you are not sure about what you need talk to them. They are amazing.”
— Dan Utley5.04 months ago“Really mid but cool”
— Evan5.04 months ago“This place blew my mind! So cool!”
— Rose Cowles5.05 months ago“Sweet staff, always ready to help. I love looking around at all the exotic breeds. Definitely recommend getting your first fish here!”
— Mj Willhoite5.06 months ago“Very helpful staff! Loved the atmosphere. 💯”
— Kyle Watson5.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (970) 259-3474 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fish Connection.