About
Reklaw Reef has built the kind of reputation that pulls hobbyists from across Texas — and that's not hyperbole. Multiple reviewers mention driving an hour or more just to browse, and the shop operates on an appointment-based model that ensures owner James gives every customer undivided attention. Located about 30–35 minutes outside San Antonio, this saltwater-focused shop has become a destination for reefkeepers and marine aquarium enthusiasts throughout the region.
The coral selection is a major draw. Customers consistently describe the variety as impressive and the specimens as healthy and vibrant. Fish arrive in excellent condition — one recent visitor picked up a Tailspot Blenny along with cleanup crew snails and noted everything was eating and stress-free.
James clearly takes quarantine and livestock health seriously, with one reviewer recounting how he stayed late to help troubleshoot a quarantine situation. But what truly sets Reklaw Reef apart is the service side of the operation. James and his team handle full aquarium relocations — including breaking down, transporting, and reassembling tanks up to 240 gallons across significant distances.
One customer had a saltwater setup moved between second-floor apartments, and praised the thoroughness of the teardown and rebuild. Another had two separate tank relocations handled seamlessly. These aren't just delivery jobs; they're full-service moves with hookup and walkthroughs included.
The shop also carries freshwater fish, food, chemicals, and supplies, though the heart of the business is clearly marine. James is the kind of owner who'll spend an hour with a newcomer to reefkeeping, walking through the basics with genuine enthusiasm. He's equally patient with kids tagging along and seasoned hobbyists debating coral placement.
Pricing comes up repeatedly in reviews as notably fair, which — combined with the quality of livestock and the depth of expertise — explains why people keep making the drive. For San Antonio's saltwater community, Reklaw Reef is the local fish store they wish was closer to home.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Appointment-based shop ensures personalized one-on-one attention from owner James
- Full aquarium relocation services including breakdown, transport, and reassembly of tanks up to 240 gallons
- Draws hobbyists from across Texas for healthy corals, reef fish, and marine livestock
- Extended quarantine support and troubleshooting for customers' tank issues
- Consistently praised for fair pricing on corals, fish, and supplies
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Very personable and professional! They transported a 240G aquarium 45 minutes away to my home, hooked everything up, and explained how everything worked. They have a variety of aquatic life, food, and chemicals in shop. Amazing customer service.”
— Alliyah Johnson5.03 days ago“Great service! A1 customer service, thanks for taking care of my 2 tank relocations!”
— The Lab Street Science5.0a week ago“Ive been to reklaw shop a couple times and always enjoyed the atmosphere and the educated conversation with the owner James. This time around I needed their help moving my tank from an apartment to a second floor apartment. James and his family were so polite and professional. From breaking it down to reassemble nothing to was skipped or half assed. Definitely recommend them if you ever need ANYTHING saltwater. Thank you again!!”
— Emilio Seijo5.02 weeks ago“I can’t express enough how much I love this shop. I drive 1.5 hrs monthly to either just browse or pick up a special order. James and the entire staff are incredibly helpful, kind and patient. I have my 2 kids with me usually and they never act like they’re a bother to them when asking questions or just following them around. Their fish are always healthy and corals are beautiful. It’s worth the drive and I’ve never left unhappy.”
— Lindsay Pichard5.03 weeks ago“Awesome local shop with super knowledgeable, friendly and patient owner, James. Every time I come in there's always hobbyists that drive in from all over Texas just to shop here and that speaks volumes. Really nice variety of corals, fish, and supplies. Everything I've bought has been quality, from corals to aquariums. Highly recommend this LFS!”
— Travis Bound5.03 weeks ago“Highly recommend this place for any of your marine aquatic needs! James was super helpful!”
— Nico Bushnell5.03 weeks ago“Best in the business by far very helpful answers all questions”
— Levi Hernandez5.03 weeks ago“Continued excellent service. Stayed extra time to help with a quarantine situation. Always quality work and there when I need them!!!!@”
— steve squier5.0Edited 3 weeks ago“Prices were great, and the owner was super helpful. I'm new to reefkeeping and the owner must if spent a hour with us just talking about reefkeeping. Huge selection, the fish were healthy, eating, and not stressed. Just called the number and set up a appointment to come in. Did I mention the prices were great! Picked up some snails, a Tailspot Blenny, and im going back next week to pick up a couple more additions. Oh ya, and prices were great! Just 30-35 minutes outside of San Antonio.”
— Jeffery Merrill5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (210) 725-4505 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Reklaw Reef.