Tucked away in DeKalb, Illinois, with a sign that's easy to miss, Prism Bettas & Goldfish has built a loyal following that extends far beyond the local community. This specialty shop focuses almost exclusively on what it does best: breeding and selling high-quality bettas and goldfish, with an online store that ships live fish across the country. The betta selection is the main draw, and it's genuinely impressive.
Customers rave about the variety of colors, patterns, and types available — from halfmoon bettas to giant plakats to wild-type mahachai. Each fish listed online is photographed individually, and buyers confirm they receive the exact fish pictured (one reviewer noted their giant betta was captioned "absolutely impossible and uncooperative in the photo tank" — and lived up to that description). Goldfish lovers will find beautiful orandas and other fancy varieties at prices customers describe as fair, especially compared to chain store alternatives.
The shop also carries live plants and some supplies, though fish are clearly the heart of the operation. One reviewer drove four hours round-trip and called it well worth it for a green betta mahachai with no missing scales or torn fins. Another couple traveled from Chicago during a Fourth of July sale and left thrilled.
Shipping is where Prism Bettas really shines. Orders arrive with insulated packaging, heat packs, and careful attention to fish safety — multiple reviewers report receiving healthy, active fish even in freezing temperatures. The shop recommends overnight shipping, and customers consistently praise how well their fish travel.
Staff member Kasey provides detailed care guidance, including specifics about whether a fish is tank-bred versus wild-caught and whether it needs freshwater or brackish conditions. Dean has been noted as welcoming and knowledgeable during in-store visits. The shop occasionally greets visitors with a resident chihuahua, adding to its charm.
Customer service responses can feel terse to some buyers, and the website inventory doesn't always update in real time. But the fish quality speaks for itself — reviewers report bettas that color up within minutes of acclimation and remain healthy months later, a stark contrast to the fragile specimens found at big-box pet stores.
Bre Skaar
2 reviews
Beautiful fish and setup but I wish it was a little more kind on the customer service end. I tried placing a pickup order for plants and food in November, weeks went by and I was never notified that it was ready for me to pick up. I thought maybe things got busy and I didn't want to pester them about it. When I did email, I didn't receive an apology for my order being cancelled despite me paying, just told that sometimes the website goes astray. I totally understand that things happen but it was a little disappointing and I didn't feel like I was valued as a new customer. I placed another order online a few hours ago only to get an email that he was already sold and they forgot to take him off the website. They did apologize then and asked if there was another fish I would like but I didn't see any one else at the same price point I wanted. I (still super politely) asked for a refund instead and all they sent back was "Sure thing." And pushed it through. The issue was technically resolved but it just rubs me the wrong way. They clearly take wonderful care of their fish and their shop - everything looks great - but I do think customer service is still important and so is responding to an inconvenienced buyer more politely than what happened to me. Not trying to be a Karen; just wanting to leave feedback.
Brenna Jackson
12 reviews
My husband and I ordered 2 goldfish from her, and they are absolutely stunning. The fish were packaged in the box perfectly and got here fast. The seller was extremely fast and prompt on responding to any questions I had, and even helped me fix my own mistake on the order. We have had the fish now for a few weeks and they are doing so perfect, they have been dubbed Lucy and Desi, and we for sure will be repeat customers. Having never bought a live animal online like this before, this experience has been completely perfect and exceeded every expectation we had! Can't wait for to order again :)
Katelyn Bolds
506 reviews
Great local fish store with high-quality plants. Sign outside is a little hard to see but worth it to find it!
Hannah Lay
4 reviews
I was very worried when ordering my betta but he came very safe and secure! His water was still warm so was the heat pack I was very impressed considering the fact where I live it was 27° when he came. The packing was amazing and he looks exactly like his picture online. So worth it for the price!
Tyler M.
6 reviews
First time ordering any kind of live animal online and great experience! Received my new betta today and the box was packed well, insulated, and like the website says included heat packs. Opened the box to find a very happy and healthy betta fish. Got him acclimated, and is exploring his new tank and eating food. There was a little water leakage but I assume that's normal from pressure changes during transit. Definitely make sure you choose overnight shipping. Thanks for the hard work you put in to make this happen at Prism Bettas. Excellent job!
Mike C
5 reviews
Do they have a number?????
Morgan Winston
58 reviews
Good quality goldfish and affordable. Love the shop. Amazing selection of bettas. She has about every color and pattern you can think of when it comes to bettas. Your sometimes greeted by a sweet chihuahua.
Kelly Herbert
13 reviews
I am always afraid to order live animals for shipping. Let me say that Prism Bettas far exceed my expectations! My fish arrived happy and healthy and is prettier in person! Great communication and super fast shipping! Definitely suggest this company for beautiful fish!
Kayla Hillard
2 reviews
We got our Kevin last week and he is just so beautiful! Very pleased with our newest addition!
Colleen Balsamo
5 reviews
Awesome selection of bettas and goldfish/orandas.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call ahead to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Prism Bettas & Goldfish.
Website
prismbettas.com/Address
216 N 6th St, DeKalb, IL 60115
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216 N 6th St, DeKalb, IL 60115
February 7, 2026
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