About
Walking into Somethin's Fishy Pet Shop in Clio, Michigan, you'll immediately notice something unusual: tortoises roaming freely across the floor like scaly security guards. These rescued reptiles have become beloved mascots — customers regularly mention watching them patrol the aisles, and lucky visitors have even witnessed eggs hatching in-store. It's the kind of unexpected charm that defines this long-running local fish shop.
The store divides its livestock into clearly separated sections for freshwater, saltwater, and tropical fish, offering a selection that keeps regulars coming back for decades. Freshwater hobbyists will find a strong lineup including discus, neon tetras, corydoras, ghost shrimp, dwarf frogs, and algae eaters. The betta section stands out — fish are kept in one-gallon bowls rather than the cramped cups found at chain stores, and customers consistently report bringing home healthy, active fish.
The live plant selection draws particular praise, with multiple reviewers calling it unmatched in the area. Saltwater enthusiasts will find a curated but growing selection of marine fish and coral, including fire shrimp and other invertebrates. Several reviewers noted that the saltwater displays alone were enough to inspire them to start a marine tank.
Pond keepers aren't left out either — the shop stocks large comets and shubunkins for outdoor setups, along with pond supplies. Staff members like Wendy, Andrew, and Sara are frequently called out by name for their deep fishkeeping knowledge and willingness to spend time educating customers. They've been known to call around to other shops to help find specific products, and they'll walk newcomers through tank stocking decisions with genuine care.
The store also offers water testing for customers troubleshooting tank issues. Note that Somethin's Fishy is a cash-preferred shop — there's a surcharge for card payments, and the store does not offer a livestock guarantee, so come prepared. For Clio-area aquarists who value healthy stock and old-school expertise over big-box convenience, this is the kind of neighborhood fish shop worth the trip.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationWater Testing
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Free-roaming rescued tortoises serve as the store's beloved mascots
- Bettas kept in one-gallon bowls instead of tiny cups, resulting in noticeably healthier fish
- Exceptional live plant selection praised by multiple customers
- Long-tenured knowledgeable staff including Wendy, Andrew, and Sara
- Freshwater, saltwater, and pond fish all under one roof
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I got my betta from here a while back. He is by far the healthiest and most active little guy I've ever had. It was refreshing to see the bettas being kept in a one gallon bowl versus those tiny little cups like at the chain pet stores. The employees here are always patient, willing to answer questions and friendly. The selection of live plants is unmatched.”
— Kristin Fleming5.0a month ago“Helpful staff”
— andy Ellett5.0a month ago“Very good service”
— Casandra Bloomfield5.0a month ago“Today was my first time stepping foot in that store with my 5-year-old son and it was the worst experience I've ever had at a store. The second I walk in both of the people working there looked at me like I was dumb didn't even ask how I could be helped, and then the lady was so rude and talk to me like I was a complete idiot. I was going to buy a heater for my fish tank and I decided to go to Dotty's and to get a heater and did not spend any money at something's fishy! I would never go there again even if they were the last fish store in town. They deserve no stars but unfortunately I had to give them one in order to leave this review. 4 years later and I still have never been back to this store.”
— Ashley Muszall1.0Edited 3 months ago“Great selection of all things fish. Plus the guard tortoises are cool!”
— April Wright5.03 months ago“Loads of fish and turtles. Fun to just look around. Friendly staff!”
— Tracy Seidel5.04 months ago“Stopped in here looking for something specific for my dog (why? Its literally called Somethins Fishy!) And they called around to find what I was looking for, and gave me input on a future saltwater tank. Will buy from here in the future!”
— Nick Nankervis5.04 months ago“Were very helpful and knowledgeable”
— Michael Moore5.05 months ago“Got what I went for”
— Kimberly Noble5.05 months ago“Healthy fish, varied stock. Wendy, Andrew & everyone else that work here are wonderful and experienced hands at fish keeping. Have bought several bettas, many live plants here.”
— Ashleigh5.06 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (810) 686-4770 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Somethin's Fishy Pet Shop Inc.