About
Fish Mike Aquatics has built a devoted following in Manchester, New Hampshire, drawing hobbyists from as far as the Boston area — and for good reason. The store stocks an impressive range of both freshwater and saltwater livestock, from sparkling gouramis and scarlet badis to rummy nose tetras, peacock gudgeons, and cherry shrimp. Their coral selection earns consistent praise for health and variety, and the freshwater plant section is described as "top notch" by regulars who keep planted tanks.
What sets Fish Mike's apart from chain pet stores is the depth of its inventory. Reviewers note hard-to-find nano fish species that simply don't show up at big-box retailers, along with a solid assortment of driftwood, supplies, and equipment — including products that many hobbyists can typically only find online. Owner Mike himself has earned a reputation for going the extra mile, particularly when it comes to sourcing custom fish tanks at various price points and walking customers through their options.
The store recently moved to a new location, which reviewers describe as a major upgrade. Tanks are consistently noted as crystal clear and well-maintained, with healthy livestock throughout. Staff members like Richard and James get called out by name for their knowledge — one employee even spent time carefully sexing a pair of sparkling gouramis for a visiting customer.
Beyond aquatics, Fish Mike's carries reptiles, amphibians, and feeder insects, including banded crickets that customers swear by. The shop also stocks house plants alongside its aquatic greenery. The store isn't without its growing pains — a few reviewers have reported inconsistent customer service during busy periods, and wait times can stretch when the shop is packed.
8 rating, the overwhelming consensus is clear: Fish Mike Aquatics is a destination-worthy store that rewards the drive with clean tanks, uncommon species, and a staff that genuinely knows their stuff.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Custom TanksConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Exceptional selection of uncommon nano fish including scarlet badis, sparkling gouramis, and peacock gudgeons
- Healthy, well-maintained coral selection alongside robust freshwater plant inventory
- Custom fish tank sourcing with personalized consultation from owner Mike
- Crystal-clear tanks and recently upgraded Manchester location
- Draws hobbyists from across New England including the Boston area
From keepers
Customer reviews
“very clean tanks well taken care of fish . Always friendly and helpful .”
— Becca Goettel5.0Edited 5 days ago“Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Great selection of fish, driftwood, plants, and others.”
— Phantom Reviewer5.0a week ago“Great fish store. I've been to every fish store in the area and fish mikes is by far the nicest. Tanks are nice and clean great selection of freshwater and saltwater... plus a bunch supplies for fish and reptiles. Good assortment of plants as well. Save yourself some time and money and forego any of the other LFS and just go here. They're Always getting new stock and rare fish in amd I love stopping by to see what's new. Highly reccomend!💯”
— Josh O5.0Edited a week ago“New local same amazing service. My favorite Manchester shop. I love this store. Animals are always gorgeous. Staff are helpful, patient, and educational. The dedication this business has is evident from the moment one steps inside.”
— Stephanie Brown5.0Edited 3 weeks ago“WOW 🤩! By far best experience in an aquatic store ever! They are knowledgeable, helpful and friendly! The aquariums are clean and fish are healthy!”
— Jenny O5.03 weeks ago“Not enough staff on hand for the amount of people in the store. Shouldn't have to wait almost forty five minutes to get dubia.Roaches.”
— James Neveu2.0a month ago“Visited on 12/27 at about 5:30. Stood near the saltwater fish and corals for a good 5 minutes watching 4-5 employees walking around ignoring us. Literally NO ONE else in the store. We finally got tired of waiting and loudly said, "OK, we're leaving, thanks for all the help.". One dummy actually responded with the biggest smile, "OK, bye. Have a great night!" Was she happy we left and she didn't have to do anything? Well... She should be thrilled then that we're never going back.”
— John D'Amico1.0a month ago“New store is a major upgrade. Tanks and store are always super clean. Their fresh water plants are always top notch and employees are very friendly”
— Surdam S5.0a month ago“James and the rest of the staff has really gone above and beyond for me lately since their move even though its hard for them to supply lots of water right now.”
— Scott Glick5.0a month ago“My boyfriend and I visited Fish Mike’s today and had a great experience! The fish and coral all looked healthy and well cared for. Richard helped us and provided helpful insight on every item we asked about. He was very knowledgeable, and we’ll definitely be back to see him when we’re ready for our next fish or any other tank needs. Thanks, Richard!”
— Amelia Borner5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (603) 836-6939 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Fish Mike Aquatics.