Fins 'n Things in Oskaloosa, Iowa, is the kind of independent pet shop that small towns are lucky to have — a one-person operation packed wall-to-wall with tropical fish, supplies, and a resident store cat that reviewers can't stop raving about. Housed in an older building downtown, the shop may not have the polish of a big-box chain, but many longtime customers say that's exactly the point. The freshwater selection draws aquarium keepers from around the area, with clearly marked tanks and healthy-looking livestock that multiple reviewers say acclimate far better than fish from PetSmart or Petco.
One experienced hobbyist noted the presence of natural algae in the tanks — a sign of a well-established, healthy aquatic environment rather than the sterile, stressful setups common in chain stores. Snails and other invertebrates are also available. For pond keepers, the store stocks goldfish in a nice variety of colors at prices customers describe as unbeatable, making it a go-to for patio pond setups.
Beyond fish, Fins 'n Things carries supplies for a range of pets, including snakes and rabbits, and the owner is known for offering helpful information and friendly greetings the moment you walk in. Informational signs posted throughout the store help customers learn about the animals on display — a thoughtful touch that speaks to genuine care. The store does have its critics.
Some reviewers have flagged cleanliness concerns, noting strong odors and crowded enclosures. It's a small, enclosed space housing many animals, and opinions on its upkeep are genuinely mixed. But loyal customers counter that a single owner is doing their best to keep the shop running and well-stocked.
For Oskaloosa residents tired of driving an hour to the nearest chain pet store, Fins 'n Things offers convenience, personal service, and livestock that arrives home healthy. Don't leave without saying hello to the store cat — apparently, it's a non-negotiable part of the experience.
Mark Straube
25 reviews
Everything you need and then some
Dan Fynaardt
152 reviews
I don't frequent pet shops but this was a nice experience.
Laura and Shawn Richmond
4 reviews
Great Selection of supplies! Tanks Clearly marked and clean. Purchased some fish a couple of months ago and all are thriving!!
savants08
80 reviews
We came here recently for a fish. While the store is small, they had so much in there. As a long-time aquarium keeper, I thought the tanks looked healthy. There should be some algae in healthy tanks. What you see at the big box pet stores is not healthy, which is why you frequently see dead fish! All of the animals looked cared for. It smelled like a typical pet store. I appreciated the many informationals hanging around the store about the fish and other animals. My fish and snail acclimated very quickly to my tank and didn't seem as traumatized as the ones I get from places like petsmart/petco, which die frequently in the transition and I continually have to drive an hour to have replaced. The employee was friendly and helpful. We will be back! Thanks!
Mikayla Cooper
3 reviews
Just checked out this place for the first time, was greeted by my new best friend. Such a friendly cat 😺 I may say. The owner greeted me as soon as I walked in the door. I seen a lot of reviews on here talking about the way it looked and smelled but to be honest it's an old building and the tanks aren't brand new. For the smell what do you expect when you visit a small enclosed building with animals and lots of tanks. The store had plenty to offer, lots to look at. I would definitely come back here for my bunny needs and just to look at all the animals. Let's all please be adults and support small businesses trying there hardest as one person doing it all. Your only one person don't let anyone bring you down, you can only try your best and I see all the hard work put into keeping this place open and we'll cared for to the best of your ability.
Vern Yenger
58 reviews
Rescued a snake and he gave me some information. Also bought snake supplies. Definitely a good quality and friendly atmosphere
Sue Vermeer
9 reviews
place could have been cleaner. these tanks didn't look that great
Kristi Applegate
32 reviews
Horrible place. I couldn't believe the awful smell of rat and or mice urine. It was so bad that I couldn't look around at the 'things' that were there. One aquarium was stocked so full of mice that their little faces were smashed up against the aquarium. It was sad. The fish aquariums were not clean, water was not refreshed in tanks and so filled with algae that you couldn't see the fish. Not many fish to select from. I had to leave after being in there for less than 10 minutes. I'm warning others about the horrid smell and terrible atmosphere.
Kathy Davis
2 reviews
Go there for everything I need for my fish
Mariah Cavanaugh
18 reviews
This is my favorite place to go for years! Made the mistake of going to the one in ottumwa this week and never will again
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (641) 672-2964 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fins 'n Things.
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101 K Ave E, Oskaloosa, IA 52577
February 7, 2026
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