Big Fish Aquarium: Your Premier Chicago Pet Store for Aquatic Life

Big Fish Aquarium Introduce

For aquatic enthusiasts across Illinois, Big Fish Aquarium is a trusted destination for everything related to the captivating world of fishkeeping. Located in Chicago, this pet store is a true hub for hobbyists, from those just setting up their very first tank to seasoned aquarists managing complex reef ecosystems. We understand that an aquarium is more than just a glass box with water; it's a living, breathing piece of art that brings tranquility and beauty into a home or office. Our passion for aquatic life drives everything we do, from the quality of the fish and supplies we stock to the expert guidance we provide. As a small, local business, we pride ourselves on creating a personal and supportive environment for every customer who walks through our doors.

Big Fish Aquarium is not just a place to buy fish; it's a place to learn, grow, and connect with a community of fellow enthusiasts. Our staff is comprised of knowledgeable and dedicated professionals who are genuinely passionate about helping you succeed in your aquatic journey. We believe that informed customers are happy customers, and we take the time to answer every question with patience and respect. Our store is meticulously maintained, ensuring that all our aquatic inhabitants are healthy and vibrant. We offer a curated selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as a great variety of live corals, plants, and essential accessories. Whether you're interested in a peaceful betta tank, a colorful freshwater community, or a dynamic saltwater reef, you'll find everything you need to bring your vision to life.

Big Fish Aquarium is conveniently situated at 6816 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60707, USA, making it easily accessible for customers throughout the Chicago area and surrounding Illinois suburbs. Our location on a major thoroughfare provides straightforward navigation, and we are well-equipped to handle quick visits for supplies or longer consultations. Accessibility is a priority for us, and our facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring that all members of the community can enjoy our store without difficulty. We understand that parking can often be a concern in a busy city, which is why we provide free on-site parking for our customers. This convenience allows you to take your time and explore our vast selection of products and livestock without the added stress of searching for a parking spot. Whether you're coming from a local neighborhood or making a special trip from a distance, our central location and ease of access make your visit a pleasant one.

Our commitment to the local fishkeeping community goes beyond just selling products. We offer a range of services designed to support you at every stage of your aquarium hobby.

In-store Shopping: Our physical location is a treasure trove of aquatic life and supplies, from live fish and corals to tanks, filters, and decorations. You can browse our well-stocked inventory and get personalized advice from our team.
On-site Services: We provide professional on-site aquarium services, including maintenance, troubleshooting, and design. Whether your tank needs a thorough cleaning, you're experiencing a specific problem, or you need help with a new setup, our experts can come to you.
Delivery: For your convenience, we offer delivery services for a wide range of products, ensuring you can get what you need without leaving your home.
Aquarium Consultation and Design: Our team can assist you in designing and setting up your dream aquarium, guiding you through the process of choosing the right equipment, livestock, and plants for a thriving ecosystem.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance: If you are experiencing issues with algae, water quality, or plant growth, we offer expert analysis and solutions to get your aquarium back on track. We also provide routine cleaning and maintenance to keep your tank pristine.

We are dedicated to providing the services you need to maintain a beautiful and healthy aquarium.

Big Fish Aquarium is distinguished by its commitment to quality, knowledge, and community. Our store is known for its exceptionally healthy livestock, which is a direct result of our careful selection and quarantine processes. We work hard to ensure that every fish and coral we sell is vibrant and ready to thrive in your home aquarium. The genuine passion and extensive knowledge of our staff are a major highlight. They are not just salespeople; they are seasoned aquarists who are eager to share their expertise. This supportive environment makes it easy for beginners to feel confident and for experienced hobbyists to find valuable information and rare species.

Healthy and Diverse Livestock: We offer a wide selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish and corals, all of which are carefully cared for to ensure their health.
Expert Guidance: Our staff's deep knowledge and passion for the hobby provide an invaluable resource for every customer, regardless of their experience level.
Comprehensive Services: From on-site maintenance to design consultation and delivery, we offer services that support the entire aquarium lifecycle.
Community Hub: We serve as a central gathering point for the local fishkeeping community, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion.
Customer Convenience: With services like free on-site parking, wheelchair accessibility, and flexible payment options including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, we make your visit as easy as possible.

For all your aquarium needs, please feel free to reach out to us.

Address: 6816 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60707, USA

Phone: (773) 295-5175

When it comes to choosing a pet store for your aquatic hobby in Illinois, Big Fish Aquarium is an exceptional choice for several reasons. The primary distinction is our specialization. Unlike general pet stores, our entire focus is on aquatic life, which allows us to offer a superior selection, better-quality livestock, and more specialized knowledge. Our staff's expertise is a resource you simply won't find at a big-box retailer. We are dedicated to the success of your aquarium long after you leave our store, which is why we offer comprehensive on-site services and continued support. We genuinely care about your success and the well-being of the animals you take home.

Our business model is built on providing a personal touch that is often lost in larger operations. We take the time to get to know our customers and their aquariums, building a relationship based on trust and mutual passion for the hobby. Our commitment to providing professional on-site cleaning and maintenance, as highlighted by our customers, ensures that your tank always looks its best. The health of our livestock and the extensive knowledge we provide are the cornerstones of our business. We are a reliable and trustworthy partner in your aquatic journey, from the initial setup to long-term maintenance. For these reasons, choosing Big Fish Aquarium means choosing a partner who is just as invested in your hobby as you are.

Big Fish Aquarium Details

From the business
Small business

Service options
Delivery
In-store shopping
Onsite services

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Planning
Quick visit

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Free parking lot
On-site parking

Big Fish Aquarium Photos

No photos available at the moment.

Big Fish Aquarium Location

Big Fish Aquarium

Illinois Cook County Chicago Austin West North Avenue

6816 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60707, USA

Big Fish Aquarium Reviews

An average rating of ★4.8 from 142 user reviews.

tankselectionsaltwater fishplantsfreshwatercoralsknowledgequestionsbettaslivestock

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

I want to give a huge thank you to Big Fish Aquarium for their outstanding customer service and overall amazing experience. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a team of incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate staff. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or just starting out, they make you feel completely comfortable even if your questions seem small or beginner level, they treat every inquiry with patience and respect.I came in looking to set up a new tank, and they walked me through the entire process step-by-step. From choosing the right equipment and substrates to helping me understand the cycling process, their guidance was invaluable. It’s rare to find a place where the staff not only know their stuff but also care about helping you succeed with your aquarium long after the purchase.The store itself is well-stocked with a wide selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, as well as a great variety of corals, plants, tanks, and accessories. Whether you're into vibrant reef setups or peaceful freshwater communities, they have something for everyone.Another great perk is their membership program and in-home aquarium services, which offer even more support for hobbyists at any level. It's clear that Big Fish Aquarium is more than just a store—it’s a hub for the local fishkeeping community.I'm so glad I discovered this place. If you're even remotely interested in aquariums, don’t hesitate to stop by and ask questions. You won’t regret it!
June 11 · Samuel Cervantes
This shop is a bit small and crowded, however their cleaning service is excellent. They are a little rough around the edges but working toward being more organized with scheduling and communicating about services. The job itself is always very well done and prices are reasonable. Let the pictures speak for themselves on how great tanks look after they are done.
July 09 · Sarah L
I’m very disappointed with my recent experience here. On Friday around 12:30pm, I specifically asked multiple times (at least five) for an SPS coral, but instead I was sold an LPS (chalice) coral. These are completely different types of corals with very different care requirements, and this mistake shows either a lack of knowledge or disregard for what the customer actually requested.As a reef keeper, I rely on stores to provide accurate information and the livestock I ask for. Selling me the wrong coral not only wasted my money, but also showed poor customer service.I hope the store takes more care in listening to customers and providing the right livestock in the future.
September 01 · Ivan Salazar
Big fish has helped my aquarium so much! I go there very often and the employees are very knowledgeable and helpful! I have had zero bad experiences! It is like a hidden gem in a small strip mall. The fish look well taken care of and tanks are clean! My 12 gallon betta tank is thriving and looking amazing thanks to them! Anytime I ask for help, the workers help a lot!
August 09 · Lila Cohen
Big Fish Aquarium has a fantastic selection of shrimp, snails, freshwater and saltwater fish, plants, and corals, as well as all the necessary equipment (though they don’t carry sponge filters). They even took the time to show me how to vacuum a tank by letting me practice in a real tank, which was incredibly helpful.Recently, I had the challenge of caring for two sick betta fish that I was babysitting for a friend. With no prior experience in fish keeping, I was quite anxious about their condition. After visiting several aquarium stores, I found that Big Fish Aquarium truly stood out. Their knowledgeable and passionate staff not only helped me diagnose the issues but also guided me step by step to improve the bettas' health. They recommended changes like switching from marble to sand substrate, adding live plants, and taught me about the nitrogen cycle to maintain optimal water conditions. What really impressed me was their honesty—they even suggested cost-effective alternatives, like buying sand from a hardware store and thoroughly cleaning it myself.Throughout the month, the staff at Big Fish Aquarium continued to support me with free water testing, and they were always patient and welcoming, even with my frequent visits. Thanks to their expert advice, the bettas became much more active and healthy, and they were thriving by the time their owner returned.The staff's genuine care for the fish and their commitment to providing only what was necessary made a huge difference. I was so inspired by their help that I started my own heavily planted tank with snails and shrimp, all purchased from Big Fish Aquarium. They are all thriving and living their best life!If you're looking for an aquarium store that combines an impressive selection with expert, honest advice, and a truly caring team, I highly recommend Big Fish Aquarium.Special thanks to Julie and the rest of the staff for making this hobby such a joy. Plus, their $5 livestock coupon for members is a great perk!
August 09 · Pantira Ketkaew