American Aquatics

American Aquatics has carved out a loyal following as the go-to aquarium store in Lubbock, Texas, earning repeat visits from hobbyists who drive from as far as Midland to browse their stock. The store carries both freshwater and saltwater fish, and reviews consistently praise the breadth of selection — from longfin neon tetras and African dwarf frogs to figure 8 puffer fish, super red bristlenose plecos, black dragon catfish, and axolotls. The saltwater side features corals at reasonable prices and the staff to help you set up your first reef tank.

The live plant section is a particular draw, with enthusiasts timing visits around Thursday and Friday to catch new arrivals. Neocaridina shrimp, mystery snails, and guppies fill out a freshwater invertebrate selection that keeps planted-tank hobbyists coming back. The store also stocks hard-to-find accessories — snail catchers, micro sponge filters for around five dollars, and multiple types of filtration options that reviewers say you won't find at competing shops.

They sell used fish tanks alongside new equipment, and offer RO water for purchase. Staff members Mark and Chris come up repeatedly in reviews as genuinely helpful and willing to spend time explaining saltwater setup details, refractometer calibration, and water chemistry. The store offers water testing and has helped customers troubleshoot everything from cycling issues to equipment selection.

Prices are displayed directly on the tanks, a small touch that reviewers appreciate, and the overall pricing is considered competitive for West Texas. The store isn't without its critics — a strict 24-hour return policy has frustrated some customers who experienced fish health issues after purchase, and the dry goods selection is acknowledged as limited, though still the most extensive in Lubbock. Display tanks throughout the store showcase impressive setups that inspire visitors and demonstrate what's possible with the livestock and equipment available on the shelves.

For aquarium hobbyists in West Texas, American Aquatics delivers genuine variety and hands-on expertise that's hard to replicate online.