Blue Fish Aquariums in Cleveland, Ohio has earned a reputation as one of the premier aquatic retailers in northeast Ohio, drawing hobbyists from as far as Akron and the Lake Erie shoreline. The store's saltwater section is its crown jewel — a sprawling collection of marine fish, corals, and invertebrates that multiple reviewers compare favorably to a public aquarium. Visitors routinely describe walking through the aisles as an experience in itself, with display tanks so stunning that impulse purchases are almost inevitable.
The freshwater side, while more modest, carries species you won't find at chain stores — German blue rams, peacock gudgeons, and paradise gouramis alongside more common community fish and bettas. One standout detail: Blue Fish cultures live brine shrimp in-house to feed their stock, a practice that speaks to genuine animal husbandry and results in noticeably healthy, vibrant fish. Staff were praised for small but meaningful gestures, like hand-selecting an egg-bearing shrimp for a customer without being asked.
The store stocks a wide range of dry goods, aquarium equipment, aquascaping materials like rocks and driftwood, and planted tank supplies. Staff members — Jessica's name comes up often — are consistently described as deeply knowledgeable, walking customers through tank setup, water parameters, and stocking choices without condescension. Several reviewers noted the store's willingness to order specialty items or notify customers when out-of-stock products return.
Pricing is a recurring talking point. Multiple reviewers flag markups above online competitors and other local shops, particularly on accessories and freshwater fish. The return policy — 24 to 72 hours on fish depending on the type — also frustrates some buyers.
A handful of reviews mention occasional tank maintenance issues, including dead fish visible in display tanks. Still, the sheer breadth of inventory, the care evident in the livestock, and a staff that genuinely engages with the hobby keep Blue Fish Aquariums at the top of most Cleveland-area fishkeepers' lists. For saltwater enthusiasts especially, the selection is unmatched in the region.
Dale White
Great place, need more freshwater fish. Not all people have saltwater fish
Christopher Romito
9 reviews
My son recently got an aquarium, and we’ve been to Blue Fish a few times to get started. On our first visit, we purchased a plain tank backing to hide cords and improve the look of the tank. The price wasn’t disclosed, and I assumed it would be around $10-$20 at most. When I checked the receipt at home, I was shocked to see it cost nearly $45- for what is essentially a piece of photo-quality paper that still had to be cut to size. For comparison, the same type of tank backing film sells for $7- $12 on Amazon. Over the past two weeks, we also purchased seven fish based on employee recommendations. Our water quality and temperature are both fine, yet four of the fish died within two weeks. The store only offers a 24-hour dead fish policy, which is extremely disappointing given the circumstances and how much money we’ve already spent there. To make matters worse, the store itself was dirty and smelled unpleasant, and during our visit we noticed dead fish floating in some of the tanks. That alone should have been a red flag. Overall, this was a very disappointing experience. Between the extreme overpricing, fish losses, poor store conditions, and lack of support, we’re going to find a new store for aquarium needs. Any recommendations are welcome.
Nancy Myers
46 reviews
If you are into salt, it's good. Fresh water, unimpressive and very high priced.
SC
15 reviews
LOVE this store...sooo helpful and reasonably priced.
FA
13 reviews
Great place! Love the variety of fish. The owner is great and does so much for his employees and community.
Brian
9 reviews
Jessica and team are great and very knowledgeable. Stop and see them!
Nathan Woodruff
85 reviews
Just giving a 5 star review to counter the gentleman complaining about the size of the BABY BEARDED DRAGON tank. Theyre fine in small sizes for the first 12 to 18 months while waiting for a forever home. Kudos to BFA for the polite response left on that review, truly classy for not hitting that guy w the knowledge I shared here. Only fish store in the area that hasn't sold me fish that die within 2 weeks. Only place ill go between akron and lake erie.
dani
38 reviews
the freshwater fish looked sad. multiple fish had ich and the tanks didnt look the best :/ the employees were nice tho and asking if we needed help
Corrie Hut
4 reviews
Excellent and knowledgeable staff. Great variety especially corals
FRANK GRCAR
106 reviews
They have best selection in town. Beautiful store with helpful, extremely knowledgeable people that work there. You can tell they love it as much as you do as a customer. Go!
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (440) 720-0776 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Blue Fish Aquariums.
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5379 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44124
February 7, 2026
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