About
Tucked away in Canastota, New York, Empire Aquatics is one of those places that surprises you the moment you step inside. The exterior gives little away, but behind the doors lies a sprawling, family-run fish store with an extensive selection of tropical freshwater fish, a saltwater coral display section, and an indoor koi pond that's become a local attraction — kids and adults alike line up to drop a quarter into the feeder and watch massive koi surge to the surface. This is a multi-generational operation.
Founded by the current owner's father, Empire Aquatics is now run by Shelly and her family, including her father John and grandson Jordan, each bringing their own deep knowledge of fishkeeping. Customers routinely mention conversations lasting well over an hour, covering everything from stocking advice for small aquariums to pond management. The family takes an honest, no-pressure approach — they won't oversell you or push purchases that don't make sense for your setup.
The livestock selection is genuinely broad. Reviewers have picked up peacock cichlids, schooling tropicals, and various other freshwater species, while saltwater enthusiasts will find coral frags on display. Live plants and a full range of dry goods, accessories, and tank supplies round out the inventory.
Prices are consistently described as competitive and fair for the region. The store does have some rough edges. Hours can be inconsistent, and a few visitors have noted cleanliness issues in certain sections or concerns about fish health.
But the overwhelming majority of the 150+ reviews tell a different story — of healthy, well-cared-for livestock and a family that genuinely loves what they do. For aquarium hobbyists in central New York, Empire Aquatics offers something increasingly rare: a locally owned shop where the people behind the counter have decades of hands-on experience and treat every customer like a neighbor. The indoor koi pond alone makes it worth the drive.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Indoor koi pond where visitors can feed massive koi for 25 cents
- Multi-generational family-run business with deep fishkeeping knowledge
- Extensive freshwater tropical fish selection including cichlids
- Saltwater coral display section
- Honest, no-pressure sales approach with personalized consultation
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I only started going to Empire Aquatics a few months ago, and they've already become my "go to" store for anything aquarium related. Great selection of fish, plants, accessories. The owner is extremely knowledgeable, and honest, and she'll tell you if your aquarium plans are good or not so great! HIGHLY recommend them if you're an experienced fish owner, or looking to get into the hobby.”
— Marc Ritter5.0a week ago“She was very helpful in finding what I needed.I'm very pleased with the help i got i shall return 😀 Thank you”
— darryl whitmore5.0Edited 2 months ago“The owner was fabulous. She gave us or space to look and talk things over. And yet she was still able to thourly explain for me undderstand any questions I had for her about the fish.. she truly care for the business which was once her father's, and just wants to see it succeed with healthy fish. She fully deserves any help/ support thrown her way, given she does almost ALL HERSELF”
— Carolyn5.02 months ago“The variety of fish is extensive and the prices are competitive. The tanks are clean and well cared for. Shelly is very knowledgeable and helpful. She gave us great advice on managing our small aquarium. We will definitely visit again.”
— Katwiskrs5.04 months ago“Very friendly and is very knowledgeable. She takes such good care of the fish. These are her summer hours this year, google wouldn’t let her change them!!”
— Jessika Barrett5.06 months ago“This place is fantastic.”
— kyle piper5.08 months ago“It was a very long time since I was there. The owner is very nice and helpful”
— Robert Smith5.0a year ago“These people know their business. Been buying fish from them for many years. The only place I will buy fish. Very knowledgeable and very honest and nice.”
— Larissa Boyce5.0a year ago“Fish are sick there”
— Mckay Granger1.0a year ago“As great as this place is it’s never open..”
— J Young2.02 years ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (315) 684-9858 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Empire Aquatics.