AquaLife

AquaLife in El Paso is a study in contradictions — a fish store with a fiercely loyal following and an equally vocal group of frustrated customers who simply can't get through the door. The elephant in the room is the store's notoriously unreliable hours. Dozens of reviewers report driving across town only to find the shop closed during posted business hours, with phone calls going unanswered and Facebook messages left on read.

If you're planning a visit, calling ahead is strongly recommended, though even that's no guarantee. When you do catch AquaLife open, though, you'll find something worth the effort. Owner Charlie has earned a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and honest fishkeepers in El Paso.

He's the kind of guy who will refuse to sell you a fish if your tank isn't properly cycled, walk you through water chemistry, and show you how to spot unhealthy livestock. Multiple customers describe him taking genuine time to educate rather than push a sale — a rarity in the hobby. The shop carries both saltwater and freshwater fish, with the saltwater side being the stronger suit.

99 — prices that undercut most competitors in the region. The coral selection draws mixed opinions; some find it adequate while others wish for more variety. Interesting invertebrates, RO water, medications, testing kits, dechlorinator, and a range of fish food round out the inventory.

AquaLife is also noted as a local source for Aquaforest products. Custom tank projects are available if something specific isn't in stock. The store's cleanliness has been inconsistent over the years, with some visitors reporting algae-covered vacant tanks while others describe a surprisingly well-maintained space.

The addition of extra staff has reportedly helped with reliability. For El Paso reefers and freshwater hobbyists willing to navigate the scheduling unpredictability, Charlie's expertise and fair pricing make AquaLife a worthwhile destination — just don't assume the posted hours mean anything.