About
Terry's Aquarium & Pet Center in Hammond, Indiana has been a Northwest Indiana institution for decades — some customers recall shopping there 35 years ago when the store was still located in Lansing, Illinois. That kind of loyalty doesn't happen by accident. It happens because the owner personally ensures clean tanks, healthy livestock, and fair prices, and because the staff genuinely cares about helping people build thriving aquariums.
The focus here is squarely on freshwater fish, and the selection punches well above what you'd expect from a smaller, independent shop. Reviewers have picked up dragon blood peacock cichlids, black widow frontosas, otocinclus catfish, and snails — a range that speaks to both the African cichlid enthusiast and the community tank keeper. The tanks are consistently described as clean and well-maintained, and customers report taking home healthy fish with few losses.
Beyond the fish room, Terry's stocks reptiles, small mammals, birds, and a solid wall of aquarium supplies. Staff helped one customer set up her daughter's very first fish tank from scratch, walking through cycling, stocking, and equipment choices. That kind of hands-on consultation is the store's bread and butter — the team will talk you through compatibility, care requirements, and what to expect before you leave with a bag of fish.
The atmosphere is distinctly hometown. Multiple reviewers use the word "home" to describe how the shop feels, and regulars like Kristy and Mike behind the counter are known by name. New stock arrives frequently, giving repeat visitors a reason to drop in and see what's swimming.
A few reviews note inconsistency in staff knowledge — particularly around reptile husbandry and snail breeding habits — so doing your own homework on less common animals is wise. For freshwater fishkeepers across Northwest Indiana, Terry's remains the go-to local fish store — decades of community trust, a rotating cast of interesting cichlids and tropicals, and a staff that treats every tank like it matters.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationTank Setup
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Decades-long NWI institution with loyal multi-generational customer base
- Strong freshwater selection including dragon blood peacocks, black widow frontosas, and otocinclus
- Consistently clean, well-maintained fish tanks with healthy livestock
- Hands-on staff who help with first-time tank setup and fish compatibility
- Frequent new fish arrivals that reward regular visits
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I have been using Terry's for fish supplies for as long as I can remember everyone is helpful and very knowledgeable”
— bryon cordova5.0Edited 21 hours ago“Plan on getting my fish for my aquariums there.”
— Alfred Dagley5.0Edited 4 days ago“This Is The best fish store in NWI , they have very fair prices . The owner makes sure you are happy ! All there tanks are super clean and well taken care of ! The owner goes above and beyond for your fish needs and the kind of fish you are looking for! If I could give this place more stars I would ! Go take a ride to Terry’s you won’t regret it . DEFINITELY RECOMMEND GO CHECK THEM !”
— Caleb Carrier5.05 days ago“Very small, but good selection and seemed healthy fish. At least I haven't had a problem with purchases.”
— michael flatt5.0a week ago“I got two days ago a beautiful parrot at this shop Great store for all needs of an animal”
— Ryan Nicholson5.0a week ago“I absolutely love this place. I've been shopping there for years because they always seem to have what I need. I've never had any issues with any live fish or supplies I've purchased.”
— Jeffery K5.0a week ago“The staff are very helpful and they take great care of the animals!”
— Valerie Castillo5.02 weeks ago“Great customer service”
— Carl Pence5.03 weeks ago“Always ready to help”
— Minister Tommie Davis5.0a month ago“Great place! Helpful staff”
— adam suljic5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (219) 931-6724 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Terry's Aquarium & Pet Center.