The Fish Store

For dedicated aquarists and budding fish enthusiasts across Seattle, Washington, The Fish Store on Lake City Way NE is a venerable institution and a true specialist in the aquatic world. Unlike general pet stores that might dabble in a few fish tanks, The Fish Store is singularly focused on providing an extensive, healthy selection of both freshwater and saltwater organisms, along with all the quality equipment and up-to-date information needed to help your aquatic ecosystem thrive. This local business has long served the Washington community as a go-to source for everything from common tropical fish to unique, hard-to-find species, along with the intricate details of aquascaping and tank maintenance. They understand the passion and precision required for successful fish keeping, and their commitment to knowledgeable service aims to empower every level of aquarist, from beginners setting up their first 10-gallon tank to experienced hobbyists designing elaborate marine reefs. While individual experiences can vary, The Fish Store strives to be a comprehensive and insightful resource for Seattleites deeply invested in the beauty and tranquility of aquatic life.

The Fish Store is conveniently located at 12320 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98125, USA. This address places it in the bustling Lake City Way neighborhood, making it readily accessible for residents across North Seattle, including areas like Northgate, Wedgwood, Shoreline, and Kenmore. Lake City Way NE is a major arterial road, ensuring high visibility and straightforward navigation for customers. The store's location offers practical advantages, with parking generally available, which is beneficial when transporting delicate live fish or bulky aquarium equipment. Its placement within a commercial district means it’s easily integrated into daily errands. For those relying on public transportation, several bus routes operate along Lake City Way NE, providing accessible options for commuters. The Fish Store's long-standing presence in this community hub underscores its role as a consistent and reliable resource for local aquatic enthusiasts, making it a familiar and convenient stop for all their aquarium needs.

The Fish Store offers a specialized array of products and services tailored to the needs of the aquatic hobbyist:

• Extensive Fish Selection: They boast a wide and healthy selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, catering to a diverse range of preferences and tank sizes. This includes common tropical fish, unique species, and often some that are hard to find elsewhere.
• Aquascaping Inspiration & Supplies: Customers note the abundance of aquascapes on display, serving as inspiration. They provide all the necessary supplies for aquascaping, including various types of wood, rocks, and substrates, along with live aquatic plants for freshwater setups.
• Quality Aquarium Equipment: The store stocks a comprehensive range of equipment for setting up and maintaining aquariums, including tanks of various sizes (and options for special orders), filters, heaters, lighting systems, pumps, and other essential hardware.
• Expert Knowledge & Advice: The staff are recognized for their deep knowledge of aquatic life and husbandry. They offer valuable, up-to-date information on tank setup, water parameters, fish compatibility, feeding, disease prevention, and plant care, catering to both beginners and experienced aquarists.
• Nutritional Fish Foods: They carry a selection of quality fish foods, including prepared and frozen options, designed to meet the dietary needs of various aquatic species.
• Water Treatment & Supplements: Essential chemicals, test kits, and supplements for maintaining optimal water quality and fish health are readily available.
• Special Orders for Tanks & Stands: For those with specific requirements, the store can facilitate special orders for custom-sized aquariums and stands, acknowledging that these may take longer and be more expensive than stock items.
• Troubleshooting Support: Staff can provide guidance on common aquarium issues, helping customers diagnose and resolve problems with their tanks, fish health, or plant growth.

The Fish Store distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that resonate with Seattle's aquatic community, though it's important to note the varying customer experiences:

• Exceptional Staff Knowledge: A consistently praised highlight is the deep expertise of the staff. One customer raved, "the owner was extremely knowledgeable and helped us pick out a few new companions for our tank." Another noted, "The worker seemed really knowledgeable and took the time to answer our question, even though he was super busy." This ensures customers receive valuable, informed advice.
• Wide Variety of Fish: Customers frequently comment on the "tons of variety" of fish available, including "some fish I haven’t seen in person or heard of." This diverse selection allows hobbyists to discover new species and find specific additions for their tanks.
• Abundant Aquascaping Options: The store is appreciated for having "tons of aquascapes to check out and they had tons of supplies," providing ample inspiration and materials for creating beautiful underwater environments.
• Quality Over Quantity (for some items): While pricing can vary, one reviewer found their "piece of wood was a little more expensive than other places but it was also of better quality," suggesting a commitment to product quality, especially for hard goods.
• Potential for Great Value: Despite some items being higher priced, customers generally found their "prices seemed good" for the wide selection of fish and supplies.
• Specialized Focus: Unlike larger general pet chains, The Fish Store's sole focus on aquatic life means a more in-depth inventory and higher level of specialized expertise, making it a preferred destination for serious hobbyists. As one customer wished, "There really should be more of these shops, and less petcos."

However, it's also important to acknowledge areas noted for improvement:

• Tank Cleanliness Concerns: One customer expressed sadness regarding the "dirty or covered in algae" tanks and a "sad" axolotl in a small area, leading them to "decided to not purchase our fish here." This suggests an inconsistency in tank maintenance which could impact customer perception of animal welfare and health.

For expert advice on your aquatic needs, to explore their extensive selection of fish and supplies, or for any inquiries, you can contact The Fish Store using the following information:

Address: 12320 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98125, USA

Phone: (206) 522-5259

Mobile Phone: +1 206-522-5259

The Fish Store is highly suitable for locals in Washington, particularly those in Seattle, due to its specialized focus and deep commitment to the aquatic hobby. For Seattle's community of fish keepers, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts, this store offers a unique and invaluable resource that transcends what typical pet stores can provide. Its strength lies in the vast variety of fish, comprehensive range of specialized equipment, and, crucially, the extensive knowledge of its staff, who can guide customers through the intricacies of aquarium setup and maintenance. While a minority of reviews indicate occasional concerns regarding tank cleanliness, the consistent praise for staff expertise and product selection suggests that The Fish Store remains a vital hub for serious aquarists. For Washingtonians passionate about creating and maintaining thriving underwater worlds, the access to such specialized knowledge and diverse inventory locally on Lake City Way NE makes The Fish Store an indispensable part of the regional pet care landscape, fostering and supporting the vibrant aquatic hobby within the community.

The Fish Store

12320 Lake City Way NE, Seattle, WA 98125, USA