Aquascapes Tropical Fish

Tucked away on Front Street in Dayton, Aquascapes Tropical Fish is the kind of backroom fish store that rewards those who seek it out. Owner Dave — known affectionately as "The Fish Guy" — runs a compact, no-frills operation that feels more like stepping into a veteran hobbyist's fishroom than a retail shop. And that's exactly the point.

Dave's knowledge is the store's biggest draw. A hands-on fishkeeper himself, he doesn't just recite care sheets — he speaks from decades of personal experience with the species he sells. Reviewers who've kept tanks since the 1970s praise him as a rare breed in the industry, someone who genuinely knows his fish and loves talking shop.

When one customer mentioned switching away from cichlids, Dave personally helped identify the right species for the existing tank setup. That kind of one-on-one consultation is standard here. The selection punches well above the store's modest footprint.

Customers consistently marvel at the variety, from hard-to-find species to classic staples that have largely disappeared from chain pet stores. One visitor specifically called out some of the best-looking White Cloud Mountain Minnows they'd ever encountered. Live plants and planted tank supplies round out the freshwater focus, and Dave is happy to advise on aquascaping alongside fish selection.

He's also set up complete tank systems for customers starting from scratch. Pricing is another standout. Multiple reviewers describe the prices as phenomenal, especially given the health and quality of the livestock.

The fish are clearly well-cared-for, arriving in customers' tanks in excellent condition. The space is admittedly tight — navigating between tanks can be a squeeze — but that cramped charm is part of the old-school fishkeeping atmosphere. Don't forget to meet Floyd, the store's beloved mascot.

For freshwater enthusiasts in the Dayton area looking for healthy fish, fair prices, and a conversation with someone who truly lives the hobby, Aquascapes Tropical Fish delivers on every count.