About
Blue Hook Aquatics in Cincinnati, Ohio is the kind of fish shop that draws people across state lines—and they keep coming back. Run by owner Dave, this compact storefront punches well above its weight with an inventory focused heavily on cichlids: African cichlids, South American cichlids, Central American cichlids, and some true oddballs you won't find at big-box competitors. Alongside the cichlids, you'll find quality Corydoras catfish (including varieties with striking orange fins), plecos—including slate plecos that one customer reported breeding within days of purchase—Bolivian Rams, rainbow fish, and a smaller selection of saltwater livestock kept in equally pristine condition.
What sets Blue Hook apart is the integrity behind the glass. Dave quarantines fish before they're offered for sale and runs no shared water between tanks—details that seasoned fishkeepers notice immediately. Multiple reviewers with decades of experience have called it the healthiest shop they've encountered.
The tanks are immaculately maintained, and sick fish are essentially nonexistent. Dave's approach to customer service is refreshingly honest. He'll talk you out of buying medications you don't need, steer you away from incompatible tankmates, and take the time to hand-select a male and female pair if that's what you're after.
He stocks top-recommended fish foods, quality medications, and a solid range of aquarium supplies and décor. If a particular species isn't currently in stock, he can often arrange to bring it in by request. Blue Hook also ships fish across Ohio and beyond, with customers in Indiana reporting healthy arrivals that ate right away.
An online presence lets out-of-town buyers check availability before making the trip or placing an order. Water testing is available in-store for those dialing in their parameters. For freshwater enthusiasts in the Cincinnati area—especially cichlid keepers—Blue Hook Aquatics has earned its reputation one healthy fish at a time.
The square footage is modest, but the selection, fish health, and genuine passion behind the counter make it a destination shop.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Extensive cichlid selection including African, South American, and Central American species
- All fish quarantined before sale with no shared water between tanks
- Ships fish across Ohio and beyond with online availability
- Owner Dave provides honest, no-pressure guidance and refuses to upsell unnecessary products
- Strong stock of Corydoras catfish, plecos, and freshwater oddball species
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Stopped in about a week ago for some fish therapy. Staff extremely easy to talk to and helpful. Walked away with a couple Orange Flashes. He took the time to grab a male and female. Mom and dad are expecting!!!”
— Nicholas Hayden5.05 days ago“We made a longer drive to see this mom and pop shop and we were not disappointed! Great selection of fish and multiple sizes. Very knowledgeable and friendly service. Will definitely visit again.”
— Rachel Creech5.0a week ago“Great place. Lots of variety and owner is courteous and helpful”
— randy coy5.0a week ago“Excellent service and selection of aquarium supplies and fish.”
— Jackie Highlander5.03 weeks ago“Nice looking fish and great prices! Thank you”
— Angela Wolfe5.02 months ago“He truly cares about his tanks and you can tell the effort he puts into everything. He answers any questions you may have and he’s honest about if something won’t work for you. Definitely the best shop around!”
— Abby Stock5.0Edited 5 months ago“Had issues with delivery due to ups but I ended up making the trip and loved the store very clean and healthy fish great job staying in contact and no problems resolving the issues with ups very pleased with my purchase beautiful fish I will be returning”
— Jerry Brooks5.05 months ago“Very knowledgeable & a beautiful selection of fish!!!”
— Ally5.06 months ago“Great selection of central American cichlids, some true oddballs , nice store 👍”
— David Reinhard5.06 months ago“Came here for a quick visit to check out aquarium stores in the area. The prices were fair, and the staff were incredibly friendly and I felt like they were incredibly passionate about what they're doing. Absolutely recommend!”
— Efran F5.08 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (513) 443-4741 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Blue Hook Aquatics.