Aquarium Co-op in Edmonds, Washington, has become something of a pilgrimage site for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts across the country — thanks largely to owner Cory McElroy's enormously popular YouTube channel, which has taught countless hobbyists the fundamentals of fish keeping. But the brick-and-mortar store absolutely holds its own. Walking in, the first thing you notice is how clean and well-organized everything is.
Multiple reviewers describe it as the least smelly aquarium store they've ever visited, and the fish — from bettas to discus — look genuinely healthy. The store's plant selection is a standout. You'll find species like Anubias Petite and Java moss that can be hard to track down at other local shops, alongside an extensive array of hardscape materials including characterful driftwood and dragonstone for aquascaping projects.
A 1,500-gallon display tank anchors the space, giving visitors something to dream about. The recently expanded floor plan has relieved the old cramped feeling, giving tanks and dry goods room to breathe. Aquarium Co-op's own product line — particularly their sponge filters and Easy Green fertilizer — has earned a devoted following, and the store stocks a solid range of medications that reviewers say actually work.
Their quarantine room for incoming fish reflects a genuine commitment to livestock health rather than just turning inventory. For those who can't visit in person, their online store ships quickly, with plants arriving well-packaged and in great condition. Staff members like Beaudreau are called out by name for going above and beyond, whether helping diagnose a sick betta or advising on tank relocation.
The team generally earns high marks for enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, though a handful of visitors have experienced checkout delays during busy periods. The store accepts credit and debit cards only — no cash. This is fundamentally a freshwater fish and planted tank store with a teaching mission baked into its DNA.
The combination of healthy livestock, quality house-brand products, and the educational ecosystem surrounding it makes Aquarium Co-op a destination worth the drive from anywhere in the Pacific Northwest.
rpk 13
5 reviews
New to the area and checking out the shop has been on my todo list. Was in the area today and stopped in for the first time. Store was clean but warm and humid. I think I got a greeting on entry? Looked around a bit. Noticed one of the 3 ladies hanging some dry goods. No acknowledgement or asking if I could be assisted, thought about buying some fish. There where about 3 other groups of customers. Selected some dry goods I could restock up on and made my way to the counter. The other 2 gals working the floor appeared to be helping other customers. Stood at the register to buy products but zero response. Waited about 3 minutes with my wife and just left. Not a great customer service experience. Look I get it running a store front is extremely hard there days as someone who used to work at at pet store I'm sympathetic. But if you can't expedite someone ready to buy at checkout especially a life long enthusiast you're gonna loose people.
Jamie Arnold
13 reviews
Store is CLEAN, tanks are stocked w Healthy fish.. staff are knowledgeable, and friendly.
Jess McCord
2 reviews
This was the nicest, cleanest, non-smelly aquarium store I’ve ever been to. The fish were beautiful and healthy, the supplies were well organized, it was spacious, and the staff were knowledgeable and helpful. Highly recommend!
austin wall
9 reviews
Awesome!
Ryan Tsoi
5 reviews
Good healthy stock, and much less cramped now that they've expanded their space.
Anna Casey
4 reviews
Very helpful staff all times I came. Have a sick Betta and Beaudreau (sp?) has been a huge help and truly grateful for all he has given!! Week prior I came in for some moving tanks to a new home advice and had fabulous help from shorter unknown name female (apologies I didn't get your name)Thank you to all of the staff there!! Your assistance has been unmeasurable and of course I walked out with some great products for my fish tanks as well as a new one!! Love this place and happy to be able to go there whenever I want! ❤️
Austin Hepburn
58 reviews
The best fish and supplies you can buy anywhere
Krimbus
2 reviews
The plug for quality stuff. Excellent supplies and decore.
Jayden
Asked to go here for Christmas amazing service and just a good store all around
IAN ANDERSON
7 reviews
The guy that works there is rude and not helpful. I went in to buy a disc. I asked about warranty time period for the fish he said I don’t know dude maybe a month or so. It’s a $50 to $100 fish come on now. Also did not take my info for a warranty. I have had fish for over 10 years.
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9661 Firdale Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020
February 7, 2026
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