The Fish Hut of New Jersey

Walking into The Fish Hut of New Jersey in Saddle Brook is, as one customer put it, like being a kid in a candy store — regardless of your age. 9 rating, this tropical fish shop has built a fiercely loyal following across the region, drawing hobbyists who drive over an hour and a half just to browse the aisles. The store's African cichlid selection is the headliner.

Multiple reviewers call it the best they've ever seen under one roof, and longtime fishkeepers who outgrew chain pet stores have found their permanent home here. One customer converted a 125-gallon community tank into an African cichlid setup and relied entirely on The Fish Hut's staff — particularly Jon Jr. — to guide stocking decisions for compatibility and harmony.

Beyond cichlids, the shop carries a wide range of freshwater species including bettas, corydoras, and colorful community fish, plus live plants, shrimp (some hand-selected with eggs for breeding), and everything needed for aquascaping. What sets The Fish Hut apart is its team. Names like Pete, Eddie, Konner, Kyle, Nico, and Jon Jr.

come up again and again in reviews — each praised for patience, genuine expertise, and a knack for making newcomers feel comfortable. Staff will test your water, help you gender fish, suggest compatible tankmates, and even follow up on the phone after you've left. One family purchased a full setup for their autistic son and raved about the personalized guidance.

Another credited Konner with making a six-year-old's first fish tank experience effortless and exciting. The store itself is clean and well-organized, with clearly labeled tanks and healthy, vibrant fish. Tanks, substrate, décor, food, and supplies round out the inventory, and delivery and installation services are available for larger setups like 90-gallon tanks.

The atmosphere is genuinely welcoming — regulars mingle with first-timers, and the staff clearly enjoys what they do. For freshwater fishkeeping in northern New Jersey, The Fish Hut has earned its reputation tank by tank.