Tucked away in tiny Thayer, Iowa — a dot on the map south of Des Moines — Fish Fix has built a reputation that reaches well beyond Warren County. With over 150 tanks filling a meticulously maintained space, owner Al and his wife Lisa have created what many customers call the best freshwater fish store in the state, and possibly the Midwest.
What strikes visitors first is the cleanliness. Reviewers repeatedly note the tanks are spotless, the water crystal clear, and there's no fishy odor — a rarity for a store of this size. The animal husbandry is evident in the fish themselves: customers report receiving Skunk Corydoras and Columbian Tetras in peak health, platinum bichirs with vivid coloring, and zebra pike cichlids that look like they belong in a breeder's showcase. Al stocks everything from African peacock cichlids to planted tank supplies, and his hardscape selection draws hobbyists who've given up on the chain stores in Des Moines.
Fish Fix also runs a solid shipping operation. Customers from Pennsylvania and Nebraska report fish arriving well-packed, healthy, and notably larger and more colored-up than specimens from other sellers. Al communicates personally throughout the ordering process, coordinating ship dates to ensure safe arrival. For those closer to central Iowa, the store offers free delivery to the greater Des Moines area.
The pricing consistently surprises people — fair and affordable for species that can be difficult to source, including uncommon and rare freshwater varieties that hobbyists simply can't find elsewhere. Live blackworms, reportedly parasite-free, are another draw for serious fishkeepers.
But what earns Fish Fix its devoted following is the family atmosphere. Al treats customers like neighbors, happily spending an hour talking fish, answering emails, and even arranging special orders. People drive two and three hours — from Omaha, from across Iowa — and leave planning their next visit. The building is wheelchair accessible, and the whole operation reflects a family that genuinely loves what they do. For freshwater hobbyists in the heartland, Fish Fix is a destination worth the scenic drive.
Iowa City Tropicals has quickly earned a devoted following in the Iowa City area — and even draws hobbyists from as far as Cedar Rapids. Operated by a single passionate owner, this shop punches well above its weight with an impressive selection of freshwater fish, live plants, shrimp, snails, and all the supplies needed to keep them thriving.
The plant selection is a standout. Multiple reviewers describe it as one of the best plant displays they've seen, with healthy specimens in excellent variety. Whether you're building a lush planted tank or just adding a few stems, the quality and condition of the plants here consistently impress. Livestock is equally well cared for — tanks are clean, fish look healthy, and one customer reported a pair of bristlenose plecos that spawned just two months after purchase, a testament to the stock's vitality.
Beyond plants and fish, the shop stocks a surprisingly deep range of supplies: driftwood, substrate, air pumps, heaters, and other aquarium accessories, all at prices that reviewers repeatedly note undercut the big box stores. One customer described gradually replacing their entire chain-store starter kit with upgrades purchased here.
But the real draw is the owner's approach. He's known for patient, judgment-free conversations about responsible fishkeeping. He'll spend 20 minutes discussing plant care, steer beginners through their first setup step by step (even in Spanish), and give honest advice that sometimes costs him a sale — like warning against fish that won't survive in a customer's tank. He also takes special requests to source specific species. First-time fishkeepers and established hobbyists alike leave feeling genuinely supported.
For anyone in eastern Iowa looking for a dedicated freshwater shop with healthy livestock, thriving plants, fair prices, and an owner who treats the hobby as a calling rather than a transaction, Iowa City Tropicals delivers on every front.
Tucked into a pastoral setting just east of Iowa City in West Branch, Iowa, the Fish Barn is the kind of place that makes aquarium hobbyists drive an hour each way and call it worthwhile. Owner Cody has transformed a barn into an astonishing aquatic destination housing over 436 active indoor tanks and 22 outdoor setups — a staggering footprint for a small-town operation that routinely leaves visitors speechless.
The freshwater selection is the main draw and arguably the best in the state. Reviewers rave about finding species they've never encountered elsewhere — Urau, Red Shoulder Rotkeil Severums, Beckford's Pencilfish, pearl danios, and a rotating cast of corydoras and rasboras. The common stuff is here too, but with notably better genetics; longtime fishkeepers report zero issues with neon tetra disease, which speaks volumes about Cody's sourcing. Shrimp, snails, African dwarf frogs, axolotls, and bettas — each kept in proper individual tanks rather than cups — round out the livestock. Some saltwater species are available as well, and the outdoor tanks cater to pond enthusiasts with goldfish and koi.
Live plants are a real strength. Hornwort, guppy weed, java moss, and other aquatic plants fill dedicated tanks, making the Fish Barn one of the few reliable sources for fresh plants in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids corridor. The dry goods section covers tanks, filtration systems, driftwood, spider wood, rocks, crystals, fish food, and water treatments.
What sets this place apart beyond the sheer volume of livestock is the care behind it. Tanks are immaculately maintained — crystal clear water, no floaters, live plants in the display tanks themselves. The staff answers questions patiently, never upsells, and will even track down specific species on request. A loyalty rewards program sweetens repeat visits.
And yes, the French bulldogs wandering between the aisles are as charming as everyone says. The Fish Barn is a destination store that earns every mile of the drive.
Tucked inside a storage unit facility in an industrial park in Davenport, Iowa, West Lake Aquatics is the kind of place you'd never stumble upon by accident — but once you spot the fish windsock and park in the gravel lot, you're in for something special. Owner Alex has built what many consider the best freshwater fish store in the Quad Cities, stocking an impressive diversity of species that ranges from healthy Hillstream Loaches and a wide variety of plecos to genuine rarities like Anableps (four-eyed fish) that you simply won't find at big-box pet stores.
The cichlid selection draws serious hobbyists from hours away, and Alex supplements his inventory with fish he breeds on-site, including locally raised fry. Community fish, rasboras, Amano shrimp, ramshorn snails, crabs — the variety is broad and the livestock consistently looks healthy and active. Alex also makes his own homemade fish food, which customers report their fish love.
What truly sets West Lake Aquatics apart is Alex's hands-on approach to fishkeeping support. He's been known to give away dirty sponge filter water to help customers cycle new tanks, troubleshoot pH issues, and identify broken equipment — often without charging a dime. He's the kind of owner who'd rather send you home informed than sell you something you don't need. Multiple reviewers note his generosity with extras: ask for two Amano shrimp and you might walk out with four.
The dry goods selection is surprisingly robust for a warehouse operation, with driftwood, filters, tanks, and supplies that cover most aquarium needs at prices that consistently undercut the competition. The store also hosts periodic fish swaps that have developed a loyal following in the region.
The warehouse setting is clean and well-organized, with well-maintained tanks throughout. People drive from Burlington, from two hours out, and keep coming back. If you're a freshwater fishkeeper anywhere near the Quad Cities, West Lake Aquatics is worth every mile of the trip.
Tucked into the small town of Manchester, Iowa, Fish Shack is the kind of locally-owned pet store that inspires loyalty — the kind where customers drive 55 miles past closer shops, or make the hour-long trip from Dubuque, just because owner Bill and his crew make it worth every mile. This is a place where fish keeping feels personal, where the staff remembers your name and the pleco you sold them years ago is still thriving in one of their tanks.
Fish Shack carries a wide selection of freshwater fish alongside reptiles, birds, and small animals. The store's resident celebrity, Peaches the parrot, is known for striking up conversations with visitors when she's in the right mood — and multiple reviewers cite her as a reason to stop in on its own. Beyond the animals, Bill stocks supplies, fish food, and notably affordable used equipment, making it a practical destination for hobbyists looking to stretch their budget. If he doesn't have what you need on hand, he'll order it for you.
What sets Fish Shack apart from big-box alternatives is the depth of knowledge behind the counter. Reviewers consistently highlight Bill's willingness to spend real time talking through animal care, drawing on years of hands-on experience rather than reading off a care sheet. One customer put it bluntly: the difference between Fish Shack and a chain store is the difference between genuine expertise and a kid who watched a video once. The store also buys fish and animals back from hobbyists, creating a community-driven ecosystem where livebearers might come home with surprise bonus fry.
The shop is admittedly small and a bit cluttered — this isn't a polished retail showroom. But for the Iowa aquarist who values honest pricing, real conversation, and a family-run atmosphere where your kid might just dream about opening their own pet store someday, Fish Shack delivers something no chain ever could.
For roughly three decades, The Fish Store Pet Center has been a fixture in Atlantic, Iowa — a family-run shop with roots so deep that longtime owner Rick has become the town's unofficial authority on tropical fish and pet care. Housed in a historic building that once served as a speakeasy during Prohibition, the store carries a character you simply won't find in a big-box chain.
The freshwater fish selection is the main draw. Reviewers consistently praise the wide variety of cichlids, knife fish, and snails, along with large display tanks that showcase the store's inventory. One customer noted picking up a baby axolotl, and another highlighted the impressive range of aquariums and supplies available. Rick's encyclopedic knowledge of tropical fish means customers regularly leave with personalized advice on stocking, compatibility, and tank setup — he once helped a family choose the right fish for their tank and even tracked down a fitting lid on the spot.
But The Fish Store is more than fish. The shop carries birds (including cockatiels that are hand-friendly and well-socialized), reptiles like chameleons and bearded dragons, small mammals such as guinea pigs and rabbits, plus feeder insects, mice, and rats for reptile owners. One customer has relied on Rick for pet food recommendations for nearly 30 years, trusting his nutritional guidance for cats, dogs, and birds alike.
The staff — described over and over as genuinely friendly and willing to chat — makes the experience feel personal rather than transactional. They'll happily order in stock they don't have on hand and take time to answer every question, no matter how small. For reptile owners in particular, the store offers affordable feeder animals and supplies that keep people driving in from surrounding towns.
Atlantic is lucky to have a shop with this kind of institutional knowledge and heart. It's the kind of place where a kid can talk fish with someone who truly listens, and where three decades of passion still show in every recommendation.
Something Fishy is a family-owned fish store in Dubuque, Iowa, that has earned a loyal following among local aquarists for its knowledgeable staff and healthy livestock. The store stocks a wide variety of tropical and freshwater fish, with reviewers specifically praising the quality of their tetras — one customer reported their new additions were thriving a week and a half after purchase. The shop also carries pond supplies and accessories, and maintains some saltwater fish on display, though availability for purchase can be inconsistent.
A standout element at Something Fishy is the staff, particularly Madison, who multiple reviewers single out by name for her patience and deep knowledge of fishkeeping. Customers describe conversations that go beyond simple transactions — Madison offers real tips and guidance on acclimation, tank setup, and fish care. For Dubuque-area hobbyists who have long lacked a dedicated local fish store, this kind of personalized attention makes a real difference.
The store also operates an online component, shipping items like marimo moss balls through platforms such as eBay, though some customers have reported frustrations with shipping timelines and communication on that front. The in-store experience, however, draws consistently warm praise. Reviewers describe it as a treat to visit, with healthy fish displays and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages lingering and learning.
Something Fishy fills an important niche in the Dubuque area as the go-to destination for freshwater tropical fish, live plants, and pond supplies. The store's strength lies in its personal touch — this isn't a big-box pet department where you're left guessing at care requirements. It's a place where the staff genuinely want your fish to thrive, and they'll take the time to make sure you leave with the knowledge to make that happen. For anyone building or maintaining a freshwater aquarium in eastern Iowa, it's well worth the visit.
FreshwaterSaltwaterTetrasLive PlantsOnline StoreShips Fish
Tucked away in small-town Mapleton, Iowa, Loess Hills Pet Collective has become a regional draw for fishkeepers and reptile enthusiasts willing to drive an hour or more to browse its surprisingly deep inventory. Owner Jacob has built something unusual for rural western Iowa — a proper aquatics and exotics shop stocking both freshwater and saltwater fish, corals, and a rotating cast of hard-to-find species that keep regulars coming back weekly.
The fish selection spans enough ground to satisfy serious hobbyists. Reviewers mention picking up figure 8 puffers that thrived months later, bettas sold with thorough care information, and saltwater livestock including corals and clownfish (yes, you can "Find Nemo" here). Jacob seems to keep the stock fresh, with customers noting new arrivals on a regular basis, including species they describe as uncommon. The tanks are consistently described as clean and well-maintained, and the fish healthy — details that matter more than flashy signage.
Beyond the aquatics side, the store carries a solid reptile section with bearded dragons, pacman frogs, tarantulas, hermit crabs, and all the associated supplies — heat lamps, feeders like crickets and roaches, and full setup gear. For reptile owners in the area, having a local source for weekly feeder insects alone saves a long drive to Omaha or Sioux City.
What comes through most clearly in reviews is Jacob's willingness to talk shop. Customers describe extended conversations about care, setup, and species selection. He walks people through purchases with genuine enthusiasm, and multiple reviewers highlight how informative he is — particularly valuable for newer keepers making their first bearded dragon or saltwater purchase. A few visitors noted occasional impatience during busy moments, but the overwhelming consensus is that this is a store run by someone who genuinely cares about the animals.
For anyone in the Loess Hills region looking for quality livestock, supplies, or just solid advice, this Mapleton shop punches well above its small-town weight class.
Tucked into Sioux City, Iowa, GroFin Aquatics has quickly earned a devoted following among freshwater hobbyists across the tri-state area, drawing visitors from as far as Sioux Falls and Omaha. This locally owned shop punches well above its modest footprint, with reviewers consistently calling it one of the cleanest fish stores they've ever walked into — pristine tanks, well-organized displays, and a thoughtful layout that includes a dedicated hardscape room stocked with idea-inspiring driftwood and stone pieces.
Plants are the clear star here. GroFin's live plant selection is repeatedly described as incredible, with species that hobbyists typically can only source online. Staff members like Micky, Christian, Taylor, and owner Doug are deeply passionate about planted tanks and readily help customers choose the right species for their setups, whether it's low-light picks for an axolotl tank or a full aquascape build. The quality is evident — customers report thriving, healthy plants that hold up beautifully after purchase.
On the livestock side, GroFin stocks a compelling range of freshwater fish, many of them locally bred. Their guppy and Endler selections get special praise, alongside plecos, shrimp, pufferfish, cichlids, and even North American native darters and sunfish in stunning display tanks. Several reviewers note finding oddball and rare species they'd never encountered in a brick-and-mortar store before. The shop quarantines fish before selling them, a detail that gives buyers real peace of mind.
GroFin is also a go-to destination for Aquarium Co-Op products, including their newer fry food and medicated flakes — items that previously required online ordering for Siouxland hobbyists. Doug's willingness to test water, answer questions at length, and guide newcomers through the learning curve turns first-time visitors into regulars. The store's combination of rare livestock, exceptional plant inventory, hard-to-find products, and genuinely knowledgeable staff makes it a destination shop for the entire northwest Iowa region.
Nestled in the Amana Colonies of Iowa, Kloubec Koi is a dedicated koi farm that breeds its fish locally rather than importing them — a distinction that customers repeatedly highlight as a reason for the exceptional health and vibrancy of their stock. This isn't a typical pet store with rows of tanks under fluorescent lights; it's a working farm where families can visit, walk among the ponds, and hand-select their fish from a stunning array of varieties and sizes.
The operation revolves around one thing: koi done right. Each fish is tested before shipping, and Kloubec's overnight delivery process has earned near-universal praise. Customers from California to the East Coast report receiving koi that arrive in pristine condition, carefully packaged and coordinated for next-day arrival via UPS. The ordering experience is streamlined — select your fish online, often from individual photos, and receive exactly the koi you chose. Multiple reviewers confirm the fish look even better in person than on screen.
Beyond live koi, Kloubec sells their own brand of koi food, which has built a loyal following. Customers describe their fish going wild for the large pellet formula, and repeat food orders are common. The website is easy to navigate, and shipping on food orders typically arrives within two days.
Long-term customers — some going back seven-plus years — speak to the consistency of quality. Staff members like Ellen and Jennifer Maresh are called out by name for their helpfulness and patience, fielding questions about pond care, feeding schedules, and koi health. The farm also welcomes visitors in person, making it a worthwhile stop for pond enthusiasts passing through central Iowa. Granddaughters get tours, families chat with the Kloubec crew, and the experience feels personal rather than transactional.
For pond keepers serious about sourcing domestically bred, healthy koi with reliable shipping and genuine customer care, Kloubec has built a reputation that extends well beyond the Iowa countryside.
