About
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.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- TetrasLive Plants
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Staff member Madison frequently praised by name for deep fishkeeping knowledge and patience
- Healthy freshwater tropical fish with strong variety, including quality tetras
- Family-owned local fish store serving the Dubuque, Iowa area
- Pond supplies and accessories available
- Online store with shipping available for select items
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Big waste of time. Called asked if they had saltwater fish for sale. They said yes. Drove 80 miles found the fish i wanted asked for price she gave it to me. I said ok ill take it. She then said oh I cant catch any of the saltwater fish. Why say you have them for sale and waste people's time hell even give them a price if you are just going to say oh we cant catch any of them. Didn't even try”
— Scott Hanson1.0a week ago“It's a treat going here. The staff are well educated if you have questions. Healthy fish with a wide variety”
— Tonya Bartels5.0a week ago“Best fish store in the area and you really cant beat the customer service. Im so thankful to have them in town”
— Ty Bailey5.02 months ago“Knowledgeable staff.”
— Jane5.05 months ago“Horrible business ethics, terrible customer service and communication. Your understanding of your own products is lacking. Marimo moss balls can live up to a WEEK outside water, but alas im out of town about a month. If anyone needs reference, contact me. I have proof I ordered on the 20th (page says ships within one day, mind you.) Owner claims to have shipped by 24th and was late because of heat (zero communication though they said they attempted to email, I monitor spam closely when waiting for online products.) Shipping records and manifest show label wasn't created until the 26th and ups didn't receive item until 26th. I attempted a cancelation on the 24th to get my money back. Cancelation request was denied and item was shipped 2 days after cancelation request. I presented proof of the actions and reiterated numerous times the same point with the same pictures, but owner is too dense to comprehend what they were looking at. I ordered on June 20th. It was a Friday. This is how competent they are. Just for reference, I made another order from a different seller, they stated it would ship the 21st and the shipping label was created today (the 21st). Shipping labels are created the day of shipping, not AFTER like you claim yours was. And no, you did not contact me in any way, shape, or form. No emails, no messages in the ebay messages area. Nothing. Keep trying to look good, its hilarious to someone like me who KNOWS you're lying. Rip off artist. Keep editing your responses, I can do this all day.”
— Chris Martin1.0Edited 6 months ago“Staff is nice. Would have talked longer but I did need to go.”
— David “Dert” Weydert4.06 months ago“I am so happy to have found a quality local fish store. The person I spoke with (Madison I think) was very knowledgeable and had great tips and info. There is a great variety of fish and the tetras I bought are still doing great 1 1/2 weeks later. Can't wait to get them in my main tank!”
— Brittany Wasicek5.07 months ago“Very helpful and nice to deal with.”
— Jeffery Scott5.07 months ago“Madison is so knowledgeable and patient with all our many questions. High quality fish and customer support. -Rep. Lindsay James”
— Lindsay James5.08 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (563) 552-7206 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Something Fishy.