About
Noah's Ark Pet Store on the outskirts of Sioux City, Iowa, is one of those places that polarizes visitors the moment they walk through the door. A mom-and-pop operation that's been running for over three decades, the shop has earned a loyal following among local fishkeepers who value the owner's deep knowledge and the store's ability to stock freshwater fish you simply won't find at chain pet retailers. Multiple reviewers specifically praise the selection of unique and rescue fish — if you're looking for a large specimen to fill out a big tank, this is often cited as the go-to spot in the Sioux City area.
The owner, who has been selling fish and small animals alongside his wife for 30-plus years, is consistently described as genuinely knowledgeable. He knows his livestock and stands behind what he sells, reportedly telling customers to bring fish back if any trouble arises. The shop also carries a respectable selection of aquarium supplies and tank accessories at reasonable prices — items that reviewers say you can't find at big-box stores.
But Noah's Ark is not without its challenges. A significant number of reviews mention a cluttered, disorganized interior and a persistent cigarette smoke smell. Tank conditions have drawn criticism, with some visitors expressing concern about the welfare of the animals.
The store's hours can be unpredictable, with at least one reviewer noting difficulty knowing when the shop is open. Customer service experiences vary — some visitors rave about warmth and patience, while others report abrupt or dismissive interactions. Beyond fish, the store offers small animals and a compassionate cremation service for deceased pets, a detail that has deeply moved at least one grieving pet owner.
Noah's Ark occupies an unusual niche in Sioux City's pet scene: a scrappy, long-standing local shop where the owner's fish expertise and rare inventory coexist with an environment that clearly isn't for everyone. For dedicated fishkeepers willing to look past the rough edges, the unique stock and personal service can make it worth a visit.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Over 30 years of local ownership with deep fish knowledge
- Unique and rescue freshwater fish not found at chain stores
- Affordable aquarium supplies and hard-to-find tank accessories
- Pet cremation and ash return service
- Owner offers personal consultation and a bring-back policy on fish
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Lady was very rude making women seem weak and couldn't lift anything. What's today's society come to I will never shop there again and would not recommend anybody shopping there. It's not ok to belittle women.”
— Felicia Guertin1.07 months ago“Got to the store the lady had a terrible attitude and downgraded my wife and sister and refused to sell us an item agreed upon complete waste of time not recomended...TERRIBLE ATTITUDE”
— Seth Mchugh1.07 months ago“My lab ran after a rabbit and directly into the side of a moving car-was killed. My ex let her off the leash. Noah’s Ark came to pick her up and brought me her ashes later. I thought this was the most wonderful thing anybody could do. It really helped me through my grieving process. I will never forget their compassion for my dog and for me.”
— Kathleen Tracy5.0a year ago“These 1 star reviews are from people with no real goals but to be lame critics. I bought a bunny from there a long time ago and he lived for many years till he got old and passed. Thank you so much for the awesome pet.”
— EthanCreates5.03 years ago“Nice, helpful people”
— Haylea Tillman5.04 years ago“Smells like smoke inside”
— Irma Quinones1.04 years ago“Interesting stuff”
— Miguel Tapia4.04 years ago“Lots of fish supplies.”
— Michael Palmersheim5.04 years ago“ABSOLUTELY LOVED these guys! They were so kind and gentle when I donated my fish🥰 I was so upset but the gentleman was so understanding and comforting to me.”
— staci jacobson5.05 years ago“Smelled like cigarettes every product was dirty and had a brown tint. Surprised the fish were alive and owners were not wearing masks.”
— Noah 81.05 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (712) 274-6800 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Noah's Ark Pet Store.