Nation Wide Aquatics

### Introduction / Overview

For dedicated aquarists and those looking to venture into the fascinating world of aquatic pets in Illinois, finding a specialized store that offers more than just the common selection is a true treasure. Nation Wide Aquatics, located in Tinley Park, IL, stands out as a unique and highly regarded destination for enthusiasts. Unlike many general pet stores, Nation Wide Aquatics has carved a niche for itself by focusing on a remarkable variety of fish, particularly rare and exotic species that are not commonly found elsewhere. This establishment is more than just a pet store; it's a hub for unique aquatic life and a source of expert knowledge, catering to both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers eager to expand their aquatic horizons.

The world of aquariums is vast and diverse, encompassing everything from peaceful community tanks to intricate setups for specialized or larger predatory fish. Nation Wide Aquatics appears to excel in offering the latter, providing an "insane selection of fish" that sets it apart. This specialization means that customers are likely to find species that require specific knowledge and care, and the store aims to provide the expertise to match. For local users in Illinois who are serious about their aquariums or are searching for that elusive "dream species," Nation Wide Aquatics presents itself as an essential stop.

This article will explore what makes Nation Wide Aquatics a distinctive local business, covering its convenient location, the specialized services and products it offers, its standout features, and how customers can get in touch. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and factual overview, allowing Illinois residents to understand the unique value proposition of this Tinley Park establishment.

### Location and Accessibility

Nation Wide Aquatics is conveniently situated at 17034 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477, USA. This address places it in the vibrant community of Tinley Park, a well-known suburb in the Southland region of Illinois. Oak Park Avenue is a significant thoroughfare, making the store easily identifiable and accessible for residents throughout Tinley Park and the wider Chicago metropolitan area.

For customers traveling by car, the location on Oak Park Avenue typically ensures straightforward navigation and generally provides accessible parking options, which is a key convenience for transporting live aquatic animals and supplies. Its position within a commercial area often means good visibility and easy access from major roads, facilitating visits for routine purchases or when seeking a specific, rare fish. While private vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for many visitors to suburban businesses in Illinois, local public transportation, such as Pace bus routes, may also service the Oak Park Avenue corridor, offering alternative access. Potential visitors are always encouraged to check current public transit schedules for the most accurate travel information.

The accessibility of Nation Wide Aquatics on a main avenue like Oak Park Ave enhances its appeal to local enthusiasts who might be traveling from various parts of Illinois to find specialized aquatic life. This prime location contributes significantly to its suitability as a destination for serious aquarists.

### Services Offered

• Specialized Live Fish Sales: Nation Wide Aquatics offers a wide and often rare selection of live fish, with a particular emphasis on unique species like various types of plecos (e.g., blue eye pleco, watermelon pleco) and exotic specimens such as the tiger moray eel. This distinguishes them from general pet stores.
• Expert Knowledge and Advice: The staff, including the owner Jorge, are noted for their extensive knowledge of aquatic life and take pride in their business, providing valuable information and guidance to customers, ensuring they make informed decisions about their purchases.
• Healthy Animal Sourcing: Customers report receiving healthy fish that acclimate well to their new environments, indicating a commitment to the well-being of the animals they sell.
• Aquarium Supplies: While the primary focus is on live fish, a specialized aquatic store like Nation Wide Aquatics typically provides essential aquarium supplies, including tanks, filtration systems, water treatments, food for specialized diets, and decor to support the needs of their unique fish selection.

### Features / Highlights

• Unmatched Selection of Rare Fish: This is arguably the biggest highlight. Nation Wide Aquatics is consistently praised for having an "insane selection of fish" that are "super rare" and "never seen at any other pet shops." This makes it a must-visit for collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique aquatic species.
• Specialization in Plecos and Exotic Species: The store is particularly noted for its variety of plecos and other exotic fish, including eels, demonstrating a deep focus on these specialized niches within the aquarium hobby.
• Knowledgeable and Passionate Staff: Customer reviews specifically mention the owner, Jorge, as "very knowledgeable" and someone who "takes great pride in his business." This indicates a high level of expertise and dedication that is invaluable for customers needing advice on complex aquatic setups or rare species.
• Healthy Livestock: Despite the rarity of some species, customers consistently report receiving healthy fish that are active and eating well upon arrival, reflecting good husbandry practices.

### Contact Information

To connect with Nation Wide Aquatics, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 17034 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477, USA
• Phone: (708) 420-0145
• Mobile Phone: +1 708-420-0145
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours:
  • Monday-Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Friday-Saturday: 11 AM–6 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM
  • Note: Summer Hours may be by appointment ONLY (please call to confirm).

It is highly recommended to call or email ahead, especially if you are seeking a particular rare fish or have specific questions about stock. Given the unique nature of their inventory, availability can vary, and confirming before a visit can ensure a more efficient and successful trip.

### Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For aquatic enthusiasts and casual fish keepers alike in Tinley Park and across the wider Illinois region, Nation Wide Aquatics stands as a truly exceptional and highly suitable local resource. What primarily sets this store apart and makes it ideal for locals is its unparalleled specialization in rare and exotic fish. Unlike general pet stores that offer a limited selection, Nation Wide Aquatics is specifically lauded for its "insane selection" of unique species, including hard-to-find plecos and impressive creatures like the tiger moray eel. This makes it an indispensable destination for hobbyists looking to acquire distinctive additions to their aquariums, providing options they simply won't find at most other retailers.

Beyond the sheer variety, the documented expertise of the staff, particularly the owner Jorge, is a significant advantage. Customers consistently highlight his knowledge and passion, which translates into invaluable advice and confidence in the health of the fish purchased. For those investing in specialized or sensitive aquatic life, having a knowledgeable guide who takes "great pride in his business" is crucial for successful tank setups and long-term care. The fact that customers report receiving healthy, well-acclimated fish further underscores the store's commitment to quality and animal welfare, building trust within the local community.

The convenient location on Oak Park Avenue in Tinley Park ensures that this unique resource is easily accessible to a broad segment of the Illinois population. Whether driving from within Tinley Park or from neighboring towns, finding and visiting the store is straightforward. For anyone with a serious interest in expanding their aquatic collection or seeking expert guidance on less common fish species, Nation Wide Aquatics offers a specialized experience that is perfectly suited to the needs of the discerning local aquarist. It's a testament to passionate ownership providing a highly valued, niche service within the community.

Nation Wide Aquatics

17034 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477, USA