The Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc.

Tucked away in West Fargo, North Dakota, The Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc. has built a loyal following among aquarium hobbyists across the Fargo-Moorhead area. Owner Scott runs a tight, well-curated shop where healthy tropical fish, live plants, shrimp, snails, and axolotls line the walls — and where conversation flows as freely as the tank water.

What sets this freshwater-focused store apart is the personal touch. Scott is the kind of owner who'll spend real time with you, walking through stocking plans, compatible groupings, and plant care without ever rushing you out the door. One customer brought their daughter in and watched Scott patiently field every question she had about fish.

That kind of genuine, unhurried service is exactly why regulars say this is their first stop for anything fish-related — and why they keep coming back instead of heading to big chain pet stores. The selection is impressive for a local independent shop. Expect a solid variety of tropical freshwater fish alongside live aquatic plants, ornamental shrimp, and snails.

The store also stocks the supplies you need to keep your tank thriving, from filtration and substrate to food and water treatments. Prices are consistently praised as fair, which is a refreshing change from the markup you'll sometimes see at specialty shops. The vibe here is down-to-earth and welcoming.

There's no pretense, no pressure — just a shop owner who clearly loves the hobby and wants to help you succeed with yours. Multiple reviewers mention walking in for one thing and walking out with bags full (wallets lighter, spirits higher). It's the kind of place where a quick stop turns into a long, enjoyable conversation about tank setups and fish behavior.

For freshwater enthusiasts in the Fargo area, The Tropical Fish Shoppe delivers quality livestock, honest pricing, and the kind of hands-on expertise that makes the hobby more fun.