About
Tucked away in DeSoto, Texas, School of Fish has quietly built a reputation as one of the most remarkable saltwater fish stores in the entire DFW metroplex. Owner Lee runs a tight operation focused almost exclusively on marine livestock, and the results speak for themselves — pristine tanks housing some of the rarest, most stunning saltwater fish in the hobby. Customers rave about finding specimens like Gem Tangs and getting to marvel at the shop's resident green moray eel with striking blue eyes in the back of the store.
What sets School of Fish apart is Lee's rigorous quarantine and conditioning process. Every fish is evaluated for health before it's made available for sale, and multiple reviewers note they've added Lee's fish to their tanks with zero issues. This commitment extends to their shipping operation as well — customers across the country have received fish via air cargo and FedEx/UPS in perfect condition, making School of Fish a legitimate destination for collectors who can't make the drive to DeSoto.
The store itself is small and unassuming — don't let the location fool you, as regulars are quick to point out. Inside, you'll find an inventory that ranges from budget-friendly saltwater species to high-end rarities that would be difficult to source anywhere else. Lee and his staff member Christian are known for spending extraordinary amounts of time with customers, often staying past posted hours to walk newcomers through tank mate compatibility, equipment needs, and honest assessments of what's actually necessary for a healthy aquarium.
There's no hard sell here; Lee has built his following on trust and genuine care for the animals. The shop also stocks corals, invertebrates including snails and crabs, fish food, medications, and equipment. Lee has mentioned plans to expand the freshwater section, but for now, this is firmly a saltwater specialist's paradise.
For anyone maintaining a marine aquarium in north Texas — or willing to have fish shipped — School of Fish delivers an experience and livestock quality that's genuinely hard to match.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Rigorous quarantine and conditioning process for all fish before sale
- Exceptional selection of rare and high-end saltwater fish including Gem Tangs
- Ships fish nationwide via air cargo and FedEx/UPS
- Owner Lee provides in-depth, no-pressure consultations for hobbyists at all levels
- Resident green moray eel with blue eyes on display in the back
From keepers
Customer reviews
“The staff is very helpful and know what there talking about if your looking for some nice high-end fish dont look no further”
— adrian deanda5.04 months ago“Had exactly what I needed”
— Paul Ayers5.05 months ago“This store is not a fresh water fish store FYI they only sell salt water now”
— shawn olobri3.06 months ago“My husband and I love this place. Lee is so friendly and knowledgeable. We will not shop elsewhere for our fish, school of fish makes sure all fish are healthy or will not sell them. AMAZING prices!!”
— Diana Calderon5.011 months ago“Drove an hour only to find the store closed when it clearly stated open”
— Ruth1.0a year ago“Great place. Lee is really helpful!”
— Jayson Quintas5.0a year ago“I can’t say enough good things about this place. My husband and I are newbies at having saltwater fish. The owner, Lee, spent over an hour of his time talking to us. From choosing tank mates to what is and isn’t necessary for an aquarium, he answered all of our questions with so much patience and kindness. There was absolutely zero push to buy a product or fish. He truly cares about his fish. His process for ensuring that the fish he sells are at optimal health is second to none. His selection of rare fish is also very impressive! Bonus, he’s increasing freshwater section very soon. We drove an hour to School of Fish because of the reviews. On our way home, my husband and I both decided that we didn’t want to purchase fish from anyone else regardless of the drive. School of Fish is THAT good”
— Kristine Diaz-Albertini5.0a year ago“Lee is a great fish keeper and has an excellent selection. Love my Gem Tang!”
— Nicholas Muscarella5.0a year ago“Owner extremely knowledgeable in what he sells. Great variety of salt water fish. From budget friendly to break the bank. Will definitely be back to this store!”
— Rusty Minter5.02 years ago“Great owner bought all my fish for my 250 here”
— Pedro juarez5.02 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (972) 292-7438 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting School Of Fish.