About
Something Fishy Inc. on Cleveland's east side carries the spirit of the old-school neighborhood fish store — the kind you remember walking into as a kid, walls lined with bubbling tanks and the quiet hum of filters. It's a family-run operation where Dave and Adam are the faces behind the counter, and regulars swear by their deep expertise, particularly when it comes to cichlids.
One devoted customer credits the duo with helping them start and maintain a cichlid tank from scratch, even stepping in to save a struggling fish. That level of hands-on guidance is hard to find at any chain store. The shop stocks a solid variety of freshwater fish, including angelfish and cichlids, alongside aquarium supplies like driftwood, rocks, and live plants — the sort of unique décor pieces that big-box retailers rarely carry.
Tanks on display are consistently noted for being clean with clear water, a detail that speaks to the care behind the scenes. Whether you're picking up food, accessories, or your next fish, the inventory leans toward the curated rather than the overwhelming. That said, Something Fishy has its quirks.
Some visitors have found the selection thinner than expected, and the store keeps tight hours — arriving even a few minutes early can mean a closed door despite it being unlocked. It's the kind of place that rewards those who come during posted hours and are ready to ask questions. When the staff is in their element, they're engaged and generous with their knowledge, walking customers through compatibility, feeding, and tank health.
For Cleveland freshwater enthusiasts looking for a local shop with personality, genuine cichlid expertise, and a personal touch that disappeared from most pet retail years ago, Something Fishy delivers an experience that's increasingly rare. Just check the hours on that yellow sign before you head over.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- CichlidsAngelfishFish FoodDry GoodsAquarium EquipmentLive Plants
- Services
- Consultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Dave and Adam offer hands-on cichlid expertise and personalized tank guidance
- Clean, well-maintained freshwater fish tanks throughout the store
- Unique aquarium supplies including driftwood, rocks, and live plants
- Family-run shop with an old-school neighborhood fish store atmosphere
- Strong selection of angelfish and cichlids
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Conseguí buenos peces y el Personal bien Atento. Gracias 100% recomendado”
— Jose Ramos5.04 months ago“Great, knoweledgable people”
— Paula5.04 months ago“Only a few fish left nothing that showed online was there.i think they are closing.the staff was very nice.”
— mary Beal2.04 months ago“Great family run pet store”
— Dan Johnson5.07 months ago“They ask if you need help then they help, they are very knowledgeable about fish and it’s a fish store like when you was a kid.”
— Tyrone Terry5.07 months ago“BEST fish spot to go to! Dave and Adam have always been so helpful! They helped me start and maintain my cichlid tank, even helped me save a fish that was struggling in my tank. I get all my food and accessories there. I wouldn't get cichlids anywhere else! They know everything about cichlids and other fish. Highly recommend if you're serious about starting or adding to your tank!”
— Elizabeth Miller5.09 months ago“Rude workers.”
— Gary Bennett1.09 months ago“Very rude, owner or worker not sure which. Just happened to see this place in passing. Me and my husband decided to stop in as we have just finished setting up our first of 2 40 gallon fish tanks. Anyway we walked in and was greeted with a man saying " People must not be able to read a sign, we don't open until 1." It was 12.45 pm. Why was the door unlocked if your not open? We didn't say anything. Nor looked to even see what they have. Immediately left and went to petco . Will never go back, sad because I would much rather go to a family owned business. ( ALSO, the sign is a yellow piece of paper. With hours written in sharpie.) Also, looking for things that you cannot find in a big box store. But this is not the one. I have never EVER been in that store before. Sorry you have me confused with somebody else. And that response shows how ignorant you are. Will never be back. I was a loyal customer of Neptunes though, hoping to find a place similar. This is not it.”
— Madeline B1.09 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (216) 635-1625 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Something Fishy Inc.