About
Shark's Cove Pet Shop in Sterling, Illinois is the kind of independently owned local fish store that's increasingly rare — a one-man operation run by Edward (Eddy), who has built a loyal following over nearly two decades through sheer personal investment in his customers' success. Reviewers dating back to 2004 describe a shop where the owner takes time to diagnose problems, identify mystery critters, and offer honest advice about what fish will actually work in your tank size. The store carries both freshwater and saltwater fish, along with tropical plants and a broader range of pet supplies including ferrets and reptile feeders like super worms.
One long-time customer credits Eddy with helping them set up a complete saltwater system in 2004 that's still running beautifully today. On the freshwater side, Eddy helped a goldfish owner solve aggression issues between fantail goldfish with a simple stocking suggestion that worked immediately. He also identified a hitchhiker organism a customer found in their tank, tracing it back to ghost shrimp purchased elsewhere.
The shop is small — some visitors note limited fish inventory and a somewhat dim interior — and it's clearly a place where Eddy will special order fish and supplies if they're not in stock. This willingness to accommodate individual requests, like regularly stocking super worms for a bearded dragon owner, is what turns first-time visitors into regulars. Multiple reviews mention becoming genuine friends with the owner over time.
It's worth noting that a few reviewers have had negative experiences, citing rudeness and concerns about tank maintenance. The store also closes on Mondays and may shut early on Saturdays, so calling ahead is wise. But for Sterling-area fishkeepers who want personalized guidance rather than a big-box experience, Shark's Cove offers something increasingly hard to find: an owner who remembers your setup, knows your fish, and genuinely cares whether they thrive.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner-operated shop with nearly 20 years of customer relationships
- Carries both freshwater and saltwater fish with special ordering available
- Eddy provides hands-on consultations including fish compatibility and tank stocking advice
- Tropical fish and live plants in stock
- Also carries small pets and reptile supplies like ferrets and super worms
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Affordable price, clean shop, and genuine pet supplies. Highly satisfied!”
— Ibrahim Islam - Skilluper5.02 months ago“Great pet shop. They have a wide collection and I am sure we can find everything we need here”
— Nasrin Akter5.02 months ago“Seriously, a hidden gem! I started coming to this pet shop because I had asked the owner if he could start carrying some super worms for my bearded dragon, and he gladly started ordering them for me and now I have been going for almost a year and have become friends with the owner, Edward! From the very beginning, he was so friendly and helpful, you just couldn’t help but like him! He goes above and beyond for people and that’s what it should be all about! Love this place and I will be a forever customer!”
— Heather Hermes5.03 months ago“Was just ok. Kind of dark, hot and they didn't have a lot of fish, but guy seemed experienced.”
— Danelle McNeece2.07 months ago“Great guy! Always eager to help! Appreciate you Ed!”
— Cody Denning5.07 months ago“This is a hidden gem 💎 just stop in an speak with the owner he is an amazing guy. Very helpful in finding my newest fur baby! 😊 Baby boy noodle "ferret" coming in Friday! So excited 😊”
— K H5.09 months ago“Rude”
— Joshua Shaw1.09 months ago“The guy was beyond rude. I will never be going back. Do not give this person your business.”
— Pete Mills1.010 months ago“There aren't many of these pet shops around any more. I stopped in today while I was passing through the area. The animals look good and the guy at the counter was helpful.”
— NewtHub5.011 months ago“Great guy and very knowledgeable. Great selection of saltwater and fresh water fish.”
— Chase Williamsen5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (815) 625-9353 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Shark's Cove Pet Shop.