Fantastic Fish

Fantastic Fish on Fowler Street in Fort Myers is the kind of tropical fish store that inspires strong opinions. Owner Tom has built a devoted following among saltwater hobbyists who swear by his deep knowledge and honest guidance. One longtime customer credits Tom with helping them conquer a persistent green string algae problem in their reef tank at home, and multiple reviewers single him out as the go-to resource for saltwater setups in the Fort Myers area.

His passion for the hobby comes through in every conversation — this isn't someone just moving product. The store carries both freshwater and saltwater fish, with reviewers noting the saltwater selection is particularly impressive. You'll find aquatic plants at reasonable prices, and the shop stocks species you won't easily find elsewhere in Southwest Florida, including some rarer fish that dedicated hobbyists seek out.

There's also supplies for turtle and tortoise keepers, plus general aquarium equipment, food, and dry goods. And yes, there's a resident cat who greets visitors at the door — a charming touch that reviewers love. Honesty demands acknowledging what comes up repeatedly in reviews: tank maintenance is inconsistent.

Several visitors describe heavy algae growth obscuring fish, dirty water, and occasionally dead fish in display tanks. The store's physical space has seen better days, with some reviewers noting construction that appears unfinished, damaged ceiling tiles, and a noticeable smell upon entry. These are legitimate concerns that prospective visitors should be aware of.

That said, the customers who return do so because of Tom's expertise and genuine care for helping people succeed with their tanks. His consultation on saltwater systems draws particular praise, and his pricing is generally considered fair. Fantastic Fish operates as a true small business where the owner's knowledge is the primary product.

If you're in Fort Myers and need real guidance — especially on a saltwater tank — Tom's reputation speaks for itself. Just go in knowing this is a function-over-form kind of shop.