Clarksville Reef & Reptiles

Clarksville Reef & Reptiles occupies a unique niche in the Clarksville, Tennessee pet scene, serving as a combined saltwater and freshwater fish retailer alongside a reptile shop stocked with snakes, bearded dragons, and feeder animals like rats and mice. For aquarium hobbyists who prefer supporting a local fish store over big-box chains, it's one of the few dedicated options in the area. The store's strongest asset is its staff.

Andrew, a longtime fixture, has built a loyal following by special-ordering fish for customers — if it's not on the floor, he'll work to track it down. That kind of personalized sourcing is increasingly rare and keeps dedicated hobbyists coming back. Zoey, on the reptile side, has earned praise for hands-on guidance, including patiently walking a new snake owner through removing stuck shed from eye pockets — the kind of real, practical education that builds confidence in first-time keepers.

Multiple reviewers purchased ball pythons here and left feeling well-informed about care. That said, the store's reputation is a complicated one. 1 stars, there's a clear split in customer experience.

Long-time patrons appreciate the knowledge and willingness to go above and beyond, but a recurring theme in critical reviews centers on tank cleanliness. Multiple visitors have noted dirty aquariums, occasional dead fish, and an unpleasant smell — issues that can undermine trust, especially for aquarists evaluating fish health before purchase. Feeder animal stock has also been inconsistent, with some snake owners reporting repeated trips without finding appropriately sized rats.

Clarksville Reef & Reptiles clearly has passionate people behind the counter and a history of serving the local hobby well. The personal touch — custom orders, patient reptile consultations, genuine enthusiasm — sets it apart from corporate alternatives. For the store to fully recapture the loyalty of the Clarksville fishkeeping community, consistent tank maintenance and reliable inventory would go a long way toward matching the quality of its customer service.