About
Fish World has been a fixture in Lincoln, Nebraska's aquarium scene for over 25 years, earning a loyal following among local fishkeepers who appreciate straightforward expertise and competitive pricing. Now under the ownership of Steve — who took over from longtime owner John — the shop continues its tradition of hands-on, personalized guidance that big-box pet stores simply can't match. The freshwater selection is the real draw here.
Reviewers consistently praise the variety, with particular enthusiasm for the cichlid collection — one customer picked up 22 cichlids in a single visit and reported excellent health and coloration across the board. You'll also find knife fish, hillstream loaches, Blue Acaras, angelfish, GloFish, and a saltwater section that, while smaller, features some genuinely unique specimens. The store carries live plants, rocks, filtration systems, and general supplies alongside its livestock.
One detail that experienced hobbyists will appreciate: many of the fish sold here are acclimated to Lincoln's notoriously hard city water, and some are locally bred. Fish World also accepts trade-ins of home-bred fish for store credit — a smart perk that keeps the local fishkeeping community circulating healthy, adapted stock. The shop itself is small and unassuming.
Multiple reviewers acknowledge the older equipment displays and compact layout, but urge newcomers to look past appearances and focus on the fish quality and the depth of knowledge available. Steve is frequently spotted doing water changes on the shop tanks, and customers note that the fish consistently look healthy and well-cared-for. Service experiences are polarizing — the majority of reviews describe patient, generous help with tank setup and stocking decisions, while a handful report feeling brushed off or encountering betta care they found concerning.
Pricing on freshwater fish is regularly cited as the best in Lincoln, often comparable to online retailers with the advantage of seeing your fish before purchasing. For Lincoln fishkeepers who value local expertise and fair prices over flashy retail polish, Fish World delivers where it counts.
What they offer
Fish & livestock for sale at Fish World in Lincoln, NE
Fish World stocks cichlids, betta fish, aquarium plants and freshwater & saltwater fish for sale in Lincoln, NE. As an aquarium store serving Lincoln, NE, it also carries aquarium equipment and offers aquarium consultations, aquarium setup and water testing.
- Livestock & products
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Over 25 years serving Lincoln's fishkeeping community
- Large freshwater selection including cichlids, knife fish, hillstream loaches, and Blue Acaras
- Fish acclimated to Lincoln's hard city water, many locally bred
- Trade-in program offers store credit for home-bred fish
- Competitive pricing often matching online retailers
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Happy and healthy assortment of freshwater fish.”
— Ford Placek4.02 weeks ago“My family has been shopping at this store for years! Always my first choice for good quality fish! Would recommend!”
— Jeremy Fitch5.04 months ago“Everytime I go in the owner is doing water changes which shows me how much he cares. His stock is amazing and healthy. I’ve never have gotten a sick fish before . I always go to Fish World first.”
— Nanette Chesley5.04 months ago“The guys that work in this store truly do care and want you to succeed in starting and caring for aquariums. I’m pretty new to the hobby and they have been nothing but nice to me and helping me become a better care taker for my aquariums and fish. Very thankful they put up with all my questions :)”
— Sydney Freese5.04 days ago“Fish World has been helpful in assisting my husband with restating his fish hobby, the fish are well c cared for, the staff is helpful in regards to the purchase and upkeep of fish and the prices are reasonable. A wonderful place to buy fish and supplies!”
— Gatherer of Nuts and Oddballs5.0a month ago“Knowledgeable staff willing to spend time and go the extra mile for you. Decent selection. Cool place.”
— Cassie Goodrich5.02 months ago“You can't beat the prices on their fish! Fish are always well cared for and look fantastic. I have never had any issues buying from this place; the owner is incredibly friendly. Would recommend for all of your fishkeeping needs.”
— Alec Devilinge5.05 months ago“Very knowledgeable and friendly, I truly enjoy going there to look and purchase my aquatic friends and supplies.”
— Thomas Davidson5.06 months ago“But far the best aquarium store in lincoln. Great, knowledgeable staff! Clean aquariums, healthy fish. 5 stars”
— Gina Brisby5.07 months ago“I brought to someone’s attention a sickly/clamped betta, and I was brushed off quickly. It didn’t seem like he understood betta behavior or their stress signs at all which is a red flag for a place that sells only fish and supplies. There are better ways for stores to display and care for their bettas than putting them in tiny cups for months on end until they’re sick and dying.”
— Larsen Wacker1.08 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (402) 489-1277 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fish World.