Northside Aquatics LLC

Tucked away in an Elkhart neighborhood — up a memorable flight of stairs — Northside Aquatics LLC is the kind of place that earns its loyal following one conversation at a time. Run by owner Larry and staff including Randy, this small-footprint shop punches well above its weight through deep fishkeeping knowledge, ethical animal care, and a willingness to go the extra mile for every customer who walks through the door. The freshwater selection is the main draw.

Reviewers mention healthy plecos ranging from common varieties to higher-end specimens, axolotls (including Golden GFP morphs), bettas, and rope fish, among others. What sets Northside apart is their ordering service — if they don't have the species you want in stock, they'll source it for you. Staff have also helped multiple customers get started with outdoor pond setups, expanding their reach beyond glass tanks.

The bettas deserve special mention. Rather than cramming them into cups like big-box retailers, the owner keeps them in individual tanks, ordering just one or two at a time. It's a slower approach, but it reflects a genuine commitment to animal welfare that resonates with customers who care about where their fish come from.

Consultation is arguably Northside's strongest service. Multiple first-time fishkeepers describe patient, detailed guidance on tank cycling, filtration, and stocking choices. One customer received a used filter seeded with beneficial bacteria to jumpstart their cycle — the kind of hands-on mentoring you simply won't find at a chain store.

The shop also accepts surrendered fish, giving hobbyists a responsible rehoming option. Pricing draws mixed opinions — some find it very reasonable, while others note that specialty plecos can run $26 to $99. The trade-off is healthy, well-maintained livestock from people who clearly love what they do.

Note that the second-floor location involves a serious staircase and limited accessibility. For freshwater hobbyists in the Elkhart area, Northside Aquatics is the real deal — personal, passionate, and deeply rooted in the community.