About
Crystal Reef Aquariums in Gulfport, Mississippi is the kind of place that has been woven into the fabric of the local fishkeeping community for decades. Multiple reviewers mention shopping here since childhood — some since the 1990s — and owner Gary has been the constant through it all. " The shop leans heavily toward freshwater, with a solid inventory of tropical species alongside more unusual offerings.
Reviewers specifically mention aquatic frogs, eels, rope snakes, and what one customer calls "oddball fish needs" — suggesting Gary keeps things interesting beyond the typical community tank staples. Goldfish, feeder fish, and minnows are available for those with larger predatory fish like Oscars. Saltwater stock tends to be more limited, and coral availability appears inconsistent based on customer reports.
Live plants and pond supplies round out the livestock side. The physical space is modest — a compact, old-school fish room that won't win any design awards. Some visitors have noted dim lighting and maintenance issues, and a few have found the saltwater section underwhelming.
But for many Gulfport-area hobbyists, none of that matters when weighed against Gary's willingness to special-order fish, test your water, and walk you through problems step by step. He's the kind of owner who will sit with you, diagnose your tank issues, and recommend exactly what you need without upselling. Pricing opinions are split — some find deals here, while others feel equipment runs high compared to online retailers.
The store stocks tanks, accessories, and general dry goods alongside its livestock. For Gulf Coast fishkeepers who value personalized guidance and a genuine relationship with their local fish shop, Crystal Reef Aquariums delivers something no online retailer or big-box pet store can replicate: Gary behind the counter, ready to talk fish.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationWater Testing
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Owner Gary is widely regarded as one of the most knowledgeable fishkeepers on the Gulf Coast
- Long-established Gulfport institution with customers spanning 30+ years
- Unusual and oddball freshwater species including aquatic frogs, eels, and rope snakes
- Special ordering available for fish and livestock not currently in stock
- On-site water testing and personalized aquarium consultation
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Listen, this store is great. Sure, its kind of small, but most fish stores are. What sets this store apart is the courtesy, professionalism, and knowledge that the store owner offers. Mr. Gary has years of experience to offer anyone no matter what level of skill you are at in this hobby. He has a very competitive selection of fish, frogs, eels, and several other aquarium pets, including saltwater tanks. If he doesnt carry it or have it in stock, just speak with him about what your looking for and he will help you however he can. So yeah, whether your new to the hobby, or are an experienced veteran, go down to crystal reef aquarium and help support our local little guys instead of buying online or from somewhere that doesnt even know what they are doing, like petco or pet smart or any other corporate run...mess. Thank you Gary, you've been a huge help to me from the very beginning.”
— Justin Maddox5.02 months ago“Fish are over priced and their equipment is very over priced”
— Barbara Clemons- Moore4.04 months ago“Great selection. Been coming here along with my cousin since the 90s.”
— Geezy5.07 months ago“Nice place. Good service”
— David Ruppert4.08 months ago“I've bought about $ 600 dollars of stuff in the last 4 weeks, just got fish in that where ordered, one died in the box on way home and 3 died next day. Tried call and was told he was to busy call back.i called him 2 days later and explained issue and he said thay where living with him he doesn't know what happened.my water was tested befor buying and after buying with no issues, got test kit from him and was shown from him too. My water was great, also put in stress coat Pryor to fish accumulating to tank. So to be told what do I have to do with it you took them is bad busines practice something could of been worked out, lost a customer!!”
— Troy Simmons2.09 months ago“Great family owned fish store”
— Lorenzo Jackson5.0a year ago“Love this place! My go-to for everything but water.”
— Jesse Owens5.0a year ago“He’s always very helpful and has a great selection of fish, I highly recommend crystal reef !”
— Samuel Swackhamer5.0a year ago“The personnel were very nice, friendly and well informed. More than willing to help. More than willing to answer any questions.”
— VELA MURPHY4.0Edited a year ago“Kind and knowledgeable owner. If they don't have what you want, he can order it! Got some goldfish from here today and will be coming back for plants for my pond hopefully. Enjoyed the fish room”
— T5.0a year ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (228) 868-4133 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Crystal Reef Aquariums.