About
Tucked away in Bellevue, Nebraska, Fin-Tastic Fish is one of those independent freshwater shops that draws people in with its unusual stock and keeps them coming back through genuine personal connection. Owner Luke has built a reputation for being deeply knowledgeable about the hobby and endlessly patient with newcomers — the kind of guy who'll walk you through compatibility questions without making you feel foolish for asking. The inventory leans toward the interesting and uncommon.
Puffer fish, including a memorable hairy puffer that one visitor called "cute as can be," share shelf space with axolotls, African cichlids, discus, and a rotating cast of tropical freshwater species you won't find at the big-box chains. One loyal customer bought a one-eyed goldfish here years ago that's now nearly eight inches long and full of personality — a testament to the health of the stock when it leaves the shop. Luke also builds custom aquarium stands, offering a nice one-stop option for anyone setting up a new tank from scratch.
Transparency demands noting what multiple reviewers have flagged: tank maintenance inside the store itself has been a persistent issue. Blackbeard algae and cyanobacteria crop up in several reviews, and some visitors have found the overall presentation off-putting. The fish themselves generally look healthy by most accounts, but the aesthetics of the display tanks have clearly cost the shop some goodwill and repeat business.
That said, the people who love Fin-Tastic Fish genuinely love it. They praise Luke's enthusiasm, his willingness to accept rehomed fish like overcrowded cichlids, and his fair pricing on quality stock. If you're in the Bellevue area hunting for something more distinctive than chain-store fare — a specific discus variant, an oddball puffer, or your first axolotl — this is worth the visit.
Come for the fish selection, stay for the conversation, and you'll likely leave with something swimming in a bag.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Custom TanksConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Specializes in uncommon freshwater species including puffers, axolotls, and discus
- Custom aquarium stand building services
- Owner Luke is praised for patience and deep hobby knowledge
- Accepts rehomed fish such as African cichlids
- Competitively priced quality stock not found at chain stores
From keepers
Customer reviews
“The state of this store is very sad and it looks like the owner has truly given up. The tanks were all grotesquely dirty. While I understand that aquariums aren't going to be pristine, the water shouldn't be super dirty and dingy. 2 stars because the people are super nice but I wouldn't buy fish from here. I wish you luck with your store.”
— Brittany Carmicheal2.0a month ago“Decent fish selection.”
— Curtis Sawyer4.02 months ago“Place is great and the owner is kind and patient. I was very new to this hobby and so I had tons of stupid questions to ask like what kind of fish can I keep with this etc. I’m glad you were patient with me and allowed my family and I to shop here and look at the amazing selection of fish!!”
— Erik Garcia5.03 months ago“K kwledgeable and a wonderful little hole in the wall .”
— allen gray5.04 months ago“Owner is friendly and knowledgeable. I needed to Rehome some African Cichlids due to over crowding and he gladly accepted them. I saw a large selection of fish for sale as i browsed the store. Will definately make this my go to store for all my fish supplies.”
— Andrew Lee5.05 months ago“Disgusting”
— Jacob Guinasso1.06 months ago“I didn't think about photos until we left the area. However we were being watched creepily the entire time by staff. No other customers, and no one was in the front or actually working when we arrived. 99% of the tanks were dirty. Of those, more than 50% had a disturbing amount of algae. Some of the tanks were so dirty nothing could actually survive in them. Worst conditions I have ever seen at any aquatic store! - update.. response to "owner" There was more than one employee there. Maybe there wasn't supposed to be. Creeping around a customer is not customer service. They should let the custom they are available if there are any questions..and go out front. Your sarcastic rude response doesn't look well on you as a business owner! There is a difference between a clean natural environment, and one that will make anything sick. Clearly if you want to own a shop for aquatic animals, you need to do more research! Take classes on running a business as well! The tanks aren't the only thing that needs to be addressed. Obviously by the multiple other reviews stating similar observations as I did You may want to listen to constructive criticism! Other reviews look like they came from friends, or people that were paid to lie for a better rating.”
— Andrea Amis1.08 months ago“Amazing place”
— The Candyman5.010 months ago“Luke is awesome and spent extra time showing me around! He is very knowledgeable and so enthusiastic. I really appreciated his friendly personality!! Thank you!”
— Christina Groves5.010 months ago“Best spot in town hands down. Super knowledgeable, great place all the way around. Wont buy anywhere else🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘”
— Chris Schilling5.011 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (402) 305-8815 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fin-Tastic Fish.