Tucked away in Ijamsville, Maryland, Aquatic Creations Ltd is a compact but densely stocked aquarium store that has earned a loyal following over more than a decade under the stewardship of owner Bill, who brings over 50 years of fishkeeping experience to every conversation. The store spans roughly 1,500 square feet and packs in a serious inventory of saltwater fish, corals, freshwater species, aquatic plants, and pond supplies — plus a notable wall of equipment, medications, and accessories that keeps hobbyists from having to resort to big-box alternatives. The saltwater selection is where Aquatic Creations really shines.
Reviewers consistently praise the variety and health of the marine livestock, from reef-ready corals to an eye-catching eel tank that stops first-time visitors in their tracks. Freshwater options, while more limited, include koi, rainbowfish, albino corys, and bettas kept in notably good condition. Plants are priced competitively — around 20% less than chain stores, according to some shoppers — and the store stocks pond bacteria, water conditioners, and genuine aquarium medications (not just herbal remedies), making it one of the few independent retailers still licensed to carry pharmaceutical-grade treatments.
Bill's consultation is arguably the store's greatest asset. Multiple customers describe bringing in water samples and leaving with clear, cost-effective solutions rather than a bag full of unnecessary chemicals. Novice hobbyists credit him with walking them through proper tank cycling, fish compatibility, and equipment selection.
He also repairs pond pumps and large air pumps on-site — a service that's increasingly rare as small fish stores disappear. The store is clean, the tanks are well-maintained, and several customers report fish spawning within a day of bringing them home — a testament to livestock health. Parking can be tricky and the storefront is easy to miss, but those who find it tend to come back.
If you're in the Frederick County area maintaining a reef tank, stocking a backyard pond, or just trying to get your first 20-gallon cycling properly, Aquatic Creations delivers substance over flash.
Alireza Soleimanpour
2 reviews
He teach me how to have aquarium, He’s a very professional. I can keep my aquarium healthy because of him.
Joesph Maguire
Very knowledgeable owner, has lots of saltwater fish including some fresh water fish.
Svetlana Gershina
15 reviews
Healthy fish and knowledgeable owner
Saxman171
10 reviews
Friendly owner and big, healthy fish. Highly recommend!
Yuan Tony
12 reviews
great koi and rainbow，not many freshwater chpices though
Ake Moto
27 reviews
Recently purchased some aquatic plant life, The owner was very accommodating towards us and showed us around a bit. The shop carries all the supplies and fish food needed for our pond! We just moved to the area and are more than thrilled to have Aquatic Creations just a hop skip away!
Amanda Marie
13 reviews
Owner is not a friendly person, seems presumptuous of other persons experiences and belongings (felt a bit misogynistic). Didn't really feel impressed with the selection when I walked in, figured there would be more fish but it was a lot of accessories. Wouldn't come back just going off of friendliness of staff. You aren't doing something right just because you replied to my review saying you are. Honestly just sounded like you needed to make yourselves feel better by responding the way you did. Even more unprofessional and certainly won't be coming back after that. Best luck that you get more years out of a failing business. Crapping on your buyer reviews doesn't help ya. Especially when all your bad reviews are pretty much all the same! Guess you should work on fixing what they're complaining about and you wouldn't get more of them. Asking your staff/customers to heart react good reviews after receiving bad ones isn't a good look either. 😂
Michael Hunt
379 reviews
What an aquatic store . The owner is just awesome. So much inventory for Saltwater and freshwater tanks. Also they have inventory for aquatic ponds for your home . So much knowledge in that store . Highly recommend stopping in and buying something. Tanks and store is VERY clean . I will be back . Michael
Vickie Humphries
286 reviews
Really nice store. Alot of great tanks and supplies. Owner very knowledgeable. Salt and Freshwater tanks.
John Charlie Donson
3 reviews
Came here with my son on Friday, if I could give this place six stars I would. Owner is an amazing guy, hilarious, experienced, and really cares for the fish and the tanks. The fish are incredibly healthy better than any other store I’ve ever been to. Already eating in our system, can’t believe this place has bad reviews. Definitely will be coming back, thank you Bill!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (301) 831-8200 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Aquatic Creations Ltd.
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2909 Urbana Pike, Ijamsville, MD 21754
February 7, 2026
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