About
PicKFish Pets in Kenilworth, New Jersey has built the kind of reputation that draws customers from as far as Brooklyn and Staten Island — people who willingly drive an hour past dozens of other options just to shop here. Owner Mike and his team have created a local fish store that feels like a genuine community hub for aquarium enthusiasts across the region. The store stocks both freshwater and saltwater species, with reviewers praising the health and variety of their fish.
Puffer fish arrive with round bellies — a telltale sign of proper quarantine and feeding protocols that many stores skip. Their betta fish are kept in actual tanks rather than the cramped cups you'd find at chain retailers, a detail that speaks volumes about how this shop operates. Beyond fish, PicKFish carries neocaridina shrimp, snails, live corals, and an impressive selection of aquatic plants that keeps planted-tank hobbyists coming back.
One standout feature is their hardscape selection, complete with a dedicated table where customers can mock up their aquascape before purchasing — ensuring you don't overbuy or underbuy materials. It's a thoughtful, practical touch that reflects how deeply Mike and his staff understand the hobby. The curated product lineup extends to dry goods, equipment, and medications, with staff ready to diagnose fish health issues and recommend treatments on the spot.
PicKFish also ships fish, and reviewers report that even orders delayed by shipping mishaps arrived with every fish alive and swimming within minutes of acclimation — a testament to their careful packing. If a specific species isn't in stock, Mike will source it and call when it arrives. What truly sets this Kenilworth shop apart is the staff's patience and willingness to teach.
First-time fishkeepers walk out feeling confident about their new community tank, while experienced hobbyists find themselves chatting for an hour about geophagus sveni or octopuses. The tanks throughout the store are immaculately maintained, serving as living proof that these folks practice what they preach.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Dedicated hardscape table for planning aquascapes before purchasing
- Betta fish housed in proper tanks instead of cups
- Puffer fish visibly healthy and quarantined with round bellies
- Ships fish with expert packing — arrivals healthy even after transit delays
- Owner Mike provides personalized species sourcing and arrival notifications
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Superstore with a wide variety of products.”
— hellen paraiso5.0a day ago“The fish and corals are always top-notch, the prices are fair, and the staff actually knows what they’re talking about (and are happy to chat tanks with you). I’ve stocked both of my tanks through them, and everything I’ve gotten has been healthy and thriving. I even make the hour trip from Brooklyn just to shop here — definitely worth it.”
— Chris L5.04 days ago“Everyone was so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable! Store was beautiful and fish were clearly loved and cared for! Will 100% be back again!”
— Yona5.0a month ago“Mike and his team are fantastic. As first time fish owners, Mike took the time on a very busy day to answer our questions and help us choose the best species for our small, upstart community tank. Looking forward to going back in a couple weeks to get additional fish for our tank!”
— Michael Altiero5.0a month ago“Adding yet another 5 star review, I absolutely love this LFS. Incredible selection of fish, plants, snails, and even neocaridina shrimp! Prices are very fair and the quality is obviously way better than a Petsmart or Petco. You can tell Mike and all of the staff love the store and everything they care for. Also love seeing their betta tanks rather than the pathetic cups at a corporate fish store. Be sure to call if you are looking for a specific type of fish, or do an online order and Mike will call you when the fish are supposed to arrive (if they're not in stock).”
— Allison Fang5.0a month ago“Very inviting, nice local aquarium store a lot of unique fish that you can’t find anywhere else ,owner came out with a smile ,introduced himself ,staff very knowledgeable ,gave me Great advice . I came all the way from Staten Island ,did not regret it.”
— Andrew Stasiuk5.0a month ago“This is the best fish store ever! Mike the owner is so good at helping with any and every question you could have! All the staff have extensive knowledge on how to care for the animals and which ones would best suit your environment. I thoroughly enjoy every single time I visit the store!”
— Mimi5.0a month ago“Knowledgeable staff”
— Michael Breunig5.0Edited a month ago“Everyone was very helpful! They all answered all my questions about my new tank! Amazing job! Thank you!”
— Latitia M5.02 months ago“I'm so happy, we have real aquarium store in Union county. Tired of those chain stores and same product everywhere. A++++ Strongly recommend”
— Rafal “Rudolf”5.02 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (908) 276-3474 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting PicKFish Pets.