About
North Waco Tropical Fish LLC has been a Waco institution since the 1960s, a family-owned shop that has outlasted trends, big-box competitors, and decades of change. Run by Neil, Melissa, and their dedicated staff, the store occupies a compact but well-organized space packed with freshwater, saltwater, and koi — a range that few independent shops attempt, let alone pull off. New stock arrives every Tuesday, keeping the tanks fresh and giving regulars a reason to swing by weekly.
The freshwater side impresses with cichlids, goldfish, shrimp (including blue dream neocaridina), and live plants, while the saltwater section features live rock and a rotating cast of marine species. Outdoor pond enthusiasts will find koi and pond supplies, and longtime customers have noted how easy it is to transition between hobbies with the store's guidance — several reviewers have gone from freshwater to salt to outdoor koi over the years, relying on the same family for stock and advice each time. What sets this shop apart is the staff's willingness to be honest rather than profitable.
Multiple customers mention that when medication is needed, the team recommends what's practical, not what has the highest margin. They'll test your water, walk you through problems big and small, and tell you what you might not want to hear — a refreshing contrast to the scripted upselling at chain stores. Prices are consistently praised as the best in McLennan County, and the fish are visibly healthy and well-maintained in clean tanks.
The store draws customers from over an hour away, some visiting twice a month for high-quality food and fish they can't find elsewhere. Families love bringing their kids — stickers for the little ones and patient conversations are part of the charm. For Waco-area fishkeepers, North Waco Tropical Fish isn't just a store; it's a multi-generational community anchor with real expertise behind the counter.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Water TestingConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Family-owned and operating continuously since the 1960s
- Stocks freshwater, saltwater, and koi with new arrivals every Tuesday
- Free water testing and honest, budget-conscious advice on medications and care
- Best fish prices in McLennan County according to numerous customers
- Draws dedicated customers from over an hour away for quality fish and food
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Best fish, and best fish keeping advice in the hobby! These guys stand by their work, and have always treated me fairly!! Can't recommend enough!”
— Dowell Downes5.06 days ago“always enjoy coming in here. the friendly girl who works at the front is always so kind and helpful! i love their variety and assortment of fish that are always kept nicely. prices are fair too, i'm not ever worried about overspending for what i need. overall, i recommend you to check it out!”
— Mischa5.02 weeks ago“I have my first visit to north waco.Tropical fish today. They have some beautiful fish. The staff was very knowledgeable and helpful.”
— Autumn P5.02 weeks ago“I am new to the hobby. I love this store! I have had big and small issues with my aquarium. They are always helpful and friendly. All my fish are healthy. I do not go anywhere else.”
— Christi Ochoa5.03 weeks ago“Dependable advice”
— Cyn Van Antwerp5.04 weeks ago“Super helpful staff, lot's of good prices on fish i can't find other places.”
— ien scharles5.0a month ago“My favorite place and my husband therapist for sure.”
— Raevyn Bischoff5.0a month ago“Great selection of fish! Helpful and knowledgeable staff!”
— Robert Baish5.02 months ago“Awesome people , the owner has been tremendously kind, he always answers my questions! Regardless wether cichlids, goldfish, koi, water quality and they will test your water. Beautiful fish, everything is extremely clean and well kept !”
— Benjamin Vivekanandan5.02 months ago“Great place for fish keepers.”
— Tony Reynolds5.0Edited 2 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (254) 754-2718 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting North Waco Tropical Fish LLC.