








Premium Pet Supply in Bloomington, Illinois is the kind of family-owned store that inspires fierce loyalty — the kind where customers drive over 50 miles just to browse the tanks and pick Monty's brain about their next setup. And Monty, along with staffers like Madison, are a big part of why people keep coming back. They don't just sell fish; they walk you through the dos and don'ts of cycling a new tank, help you pick hearty starter fish, and remember your setup well enough to offer tailored suggestions on return visits.
The freshwater selection draws the most praise. Reviewers highlight a wide variety of fish, from guppies and rope fish to pond goldfish sold at great prices. One customer gleefully picked up a breeding pair of crawdads for an aquaponic garden, which speaks to the store's range of invertebrates beyond typical hobby fare.
The live plant selection is described as tremendous, and Monty's plant recommendations have helped customers build genuinely beautiful planted tanks. Beyond livestock, Premium Pet carries a solid inventory of aquarium equipment — filter media, airstones, driftwood, and décor. The driftwood selection in particular gets singled out as impressive.
They also stock premium pet foods for dogs and cats, reptile feeder insects like Dubia roaches and hornworms, and even à la carte snake food. Their frequent buyer card program keeps pricing competitive with big-box stores, which is notable for an independent shop. The store features what one reviewer calls a "fun fish cave" — a dedicated viewing area where you can get a closer look at the aquatic livestock.
The atmosphere is warm and unhurried, with staff in signature bowling shirts who genuinely enjoy talking fish. A few reviewers have noted occasional health issues with livestock, so quarantining new arrivals is wise — standard practice for any serious hobbyist. But for the Bloomington area, Premium Pet Supply remains the clear first stop for freshwater fish, live plants, pond supplies, and honest aquarium advice from people who actually care.
Colin Heath
I’ve been coming here for years and the overall knowledge and care for fish and aquariums is amazing. Everyone is very helpful and the fish and plants are high quality
Annaleisia Hilburn
184 reviews
The young man that was working was nice, helpful and asked questions. Thanks for a great shoppe.
Dustin Brown
8 reviews
Great fish selection. Sometimes a little pricey but just like in anything get what you pay for.
Cyonnor
8 reviews
Best fish place around by far
Opal Fishel
6 reviews
Many of the fish had ick and looked to be in poor health. I get that it happens but even petsmart which is a chain brand closed down their system to get all the fish treated. they had a lot of decor and very pretty driftwood at least. their plants were 100% snail infested given all the pest snails in the plant tanks. if you buy a fish from here be ready to quarantine it and check for any signs of illness. i was very disappointed after being so excited to check out a new fish store and potentially get more guppies. absolutely do not trust that they won’t die in a week though.
Julie Hiles
17 reviews
Helpful staff and a local store
Renee Alcorn
17 reviews
Great selection of aquatics and pet food! Friendly knowledgeable staff.
Dan Patrick Photography
469 reviews
Awesome family owned store, there is no reason to go to the big chains when this place is here. Great prices and lots of options.
Jim Anderson
107 reviews
Got a great deal on pond goldfish!
Bryan Hurst
26 reviews
Monty and crew are always great, especially. Monty he' s like family. Fish knowledge and quality are both excellent!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (309) 662-2153 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Premium Pet Supply.
Phone
(309) 662-2153Address
1500 E Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61701
Take control of your listing to update info and respond to reviews.
Claim This ListingFind on Map
1500 E Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61701
February 7, 2026
Verified Data
Information verified through Google Places API and community contributions.
Other aquarium shops nearby worth checking out