STL Aquatics

STL Aquatics in St. Louis has carved out a reputation as the go-to saltwater destination in the metro area, though freshwater enthusiasts and pond keepers will find plenty to love too. The store, which underwent a remodel under new ownership, is compact but densely packed — wall-to-wall livestock and gear organized with care.

The real draw is the coral selection: reviewers consistently call the frag racks the best in town, with a rotating inventory that makes every visit feel like a treasure hunt. Their standing "buy 3 frags, get 1 free" deal sweetens an already competitive pricing structure. Staff members Matt, Harrison, Shane, and Jonathan come up repeatedly in reviews, and for good reason.

They've walked countless first-time saltwater hobbyists through the entire process — from selecting a tank and dialing in equipment to explaining the nuances of reef keeping with genuine patience. Harrison has been spotted helping customers with pond problems before the store was even officially open for the day. That kind of dedication defines the place.

Beyond retail, STL Aquatics offers hands-on services that set them apart. They'll haul a 120-gallon tank across town with a professional game plan, install and stock new aquariums in your living room, and even helped a teacher plan and build a nano reef for a middle school classroom. Customers describe the team as honest — more interested in setting you up for success than upselling.

The livestock quality is consistently praised. Fish arrive healthy and stay that way, with reviewers reporting strong long-term survival in their home tanks. Pink-tailed triggers, engineer gobies, and a shop shark tank give a sense of the range on display.

Freshwater options include bettas and other staples, and pond supplies round out the inventory. STL Aquatics feels like the kind of local fish store that builds a community around it — a place where you walk in with a question and leave smarter, more excited, and probably carrying a bag of frags you didn't plan on buying.