Tucked away in Houston, FJW Aquarium has built a devoted following among saltwater hobbyists over more than a decade. Owner Dennis runs a focused, saltwater-only operation that reviewers consistently rank among the best reef shops in Houston — and some argue, the country. The store may be compact, but the inventory punches well above its weight: corals starting at $10 per frag, healthy yellow tangs, clownfish, blue spotted jawfish, pistol shrimp dug out of live rock on request, and a clean-up crew selection that covers the essentials.
The coral selection is the store's crown jewel. Reviewers describe walls of hammer corals, frags, and colonies in sizes and health that rival online vendors — and at prices many find surprisingly competitive for Houston. Dennis keeps a reef wonderland stocked with both entry-level and collector pieces, and multiple long-time customers note they rarely leave empty-handed.
On the equipment side, FJW carries Neptune Apex controllers, Hanna Checkers with reagents, Red Sea products, RO/DI systems, and a range of hardware from beginner setups to professional-grade gear. The store also stocks live copepods and live phytoplankton — a detail that reef keepers running mandarin dragonets or coral-heavy systems will appreciate. Dennis is known for keeping inventory consistently in stock, a rarity among independent fish stores.
The real draw is Dennis himself. Customers describe him as deeply knowledgeable, patient with newcomers, and willing to spend serious time answering questions about water quality, coral compatibility, and livestock pairing before making a sale. He's also sourced unusual fish on special request and had them delivered to the store in short order.
A few reviewers note inconsistent hours and occasional livestock health concerns, so calling ahead is wise. But for Houston's saltwater community, FJW Aquarium remains a cornerstone — a place where reef obsession meets genuine expertise and reliably stocked shelves.
John Mier
4 reviews
You can never depend on this shop. He has posted hours, but doesn’t follow him. It’s very disappointing as a customer to drive out to his store within his posted hours and it’s locked. It happens way too frequently here.
Mary E. Francis
47 reviews
They have all sorts of fish that you can buy and they also turtles
Stuart Haese
37 reviews
A little pricey with the food was good.\nBetter than your average fast food.
Julian
3 reviews
Easily the best saltwater aquarium store in Houston and there is a strong argument for being one of the best in the nation. Yes, its that good. Dennis, the owner, is amongst the most knowledge aquarist I know and his hardware inventory ranges from entry-level to professional caliber...and its usually in stock!!! If he doesn't have it, he can get it. Also, his livestock is fantastic. He regularly stocks beautiful (and healthy) corals and inverts, and his fish selection is equally impressive. I've been going there for over 10 years and in the odd cases where I've requested something really unusual, Dennis has not only found it, but usually got it in a short period of time. Can't say enough good things about FJW.
John Chargois
109 reviews
New to the hobby and this was my first stop for a pair of clownfish. They're super healthy and got comfortable in their new home super fast. Store owner is extremely helpful and answered all of my questions. Definitely returning and I do recommend this store for your saltwater needs.
Emily Hancock
22 reviews
Love this place. They have great saltwater
Julian Navarrete
5 reviews
I love this store, I call the owner directly to get tips and he has been nothing but helpful. Plus he has a clean store.
Robert Hughes (ModAquatics)
90 reviews
Great store and owner.
Shivani Shah
5 reviews
FJW Aquarium sold us a sick blue spotted jawfish that clearly hadn’t been properly quarantined — and never bothered to tell us. That fish infected our entire tank and killed multiple healthy fish we’d had for years. When we went back to return it, they refused to take it back or make things right. No refund, no apology — just complete indifference. As hobbyists, we rely on stores like FJW to do the basic job of selling healthy livestock. Instead, they pushed a diseased fish onto us with zero transparency or accountability. Quarantining at home isn’t realistic for most people, and it’s unacceptable for a store to cut corners like this. They cost us time, money, and beloved fish — and acted like it was no big deal. We’re done. FJW has lost our trust, our respect, and our business permanently. Don’t risk your tank here.
Stephen DuBois
2 reviews
Very helpful and friendly.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (281) 948-8803 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting FJW Aquarium.
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3839 Mangum Rd, Houston, TX 77092, USA
February 7, 2026
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