Red Fish Blue Fish Aquatics has quickly become a favorite among Madison's freshwater hobbyists, and it's easy to see why. This tidy, well-organized shop specializes in healthy freshwater fish, live plants, shrimp, and snails — and the care that goes into every tank is immediately apparent. Visitors consistently note how clean and bright the displays are, with no overcrowding and no lingering smell, a sure sign of meticulous husbandry behind the scenes.
The cichlid selection draws particular praise, alongside more uncommon offerings like pea puffers that customers report thriving long after purchase. The plant inventory is equally impressive — buyers describe their new acquisitions growing fantastically in home tanks, and the staff takes time to help customers choose species that will work for their specific setups. Shrimp and snails round out a focused freshwater invertebrate lineup.
What sets this shop apart is the owner's genuine passion and hands-on involvement. He'll test your water on the spot, walk you through aquarium management, and patiently answer questions from both seasoned hobbyists and curious kids alike. Multiple reviewers describe detailed conversations about tank setup, fish care, and plant compatibility — the kind of personalized consultation that big-box stores simply can't match.
Red Fish Blue Fish also ships orders, and the online experience mirrors the in-store quality. One customer raved about the communication, fair pricing, and fast shipping, noting that the fish arrived in excellent condition. That kind of consistency across channels speaks volumes about how the business is run.
For anyone building or maintaining a freshwater aquarium in the Madison area, this shop delivers on every front: healthy livestock, thriving plants, spotless facilities, and the kind of expert guidance that helps you succeed at home. 9-star rating across dozens of reviews isn't an accident — it's the result of an owner who clearly treats every fish, plant, and customer with genuine care.
Mireya Pimentel
2 reviews
Gorgeous setup and fish. The owner is super helpful and kind.
Nathan D
28 reviews
Good spot to get what you need.
Jsgsofhkso Kshelsbsudhdm
Loved this place so so so so so much I think I met the owner so kind chatty and just such a wounderful caring person.
Jon Johansen
6 reviews
Nice fish. Nice selection of chiclids and other more out of the ordinary fish.
Domenick CHILELLI
3 reviews
Red fish, blue fish just totally blew me away with this order that I received even though there was one DOA it didn’t matter because it was by no fault of theirs. They know their business inside and out they are experts from start to finish their prices are Fair, they have a great selection, great communication and fast shipping. I was so impressed with my delivery that I can’t wait to get another one. I would highly recommend them.
Kamie Tolley
4 reviews
We went for the first time today. We got some plants for our tank and they are so healthy and pretty. The person working was so knowledgeable and helped us pick the plants that would work nicely. He was so kind to my daughter as well with her questions. The tanks were so clean and bright. The fish looked healthy and they weren’t over crowded either. The shop overall was so clean, it did not smell, and very organized. We look forward to our next trip there.
Casey Bouchard
2 reviews
We stopped by the shop last week to get the first fish for our new tank and were blown away by how kind and knowledgeable the owner is, and the great selection of fish/plants/products. We’ve been back again already for more and received wonderful service yet again. It’s clear the owner has a passion for this. We will be more than happy to shop here regularly in the future!
Mark Ludwigson
29 reviews
Tested my water and gave me advice for managing my aquarium
Katie Allen
6 reviews
My absolute favorite fish store and I’ve explored almost all in the Madison area
Ariana
3 reviews
I've been going here for about two months now and have had nothing but great experiences. I've purchased plenty of plants and they always come in great condition and are growing fantastic in my tank! I have a small group of pea puffers as well that are super healthy and happy! The owner is also very knowledgeable and friendly. Could not recommend this shop enough.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (608) 230-5305 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Red Fish Blue Fish Aquatics.
Phone
(608) 230-5305Website
redfishbluefishaquatics.com/Address
4676 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison, WI 53716
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4676 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison, WI 53716
February 7, 2026
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