Segrest Farms

- 6180 Big Bend Rd, Gibsonton, FL 33534

In the heart of Florida’s beautiful landscape, where the aquaculture industry thrives, a truly unique and world-renowned establishment stands out. Segrest Farms, located in Gibsonton, is not your typical neighborhood pet store. This is a large-scale tropical fish farm and a global leader in the wholesale distribution of ornamental fish, corals, and invertebrates. While it operates primarily as a wholesale business, supplying pet stores, research institutions, and public aquariums across the globe, it offers a fascinating glimpse into a side of the pet industry that most people never get to see. The sheer scale and specialization of Segrest Farms make it a one-of-a-kind destination for aquatic enthusiasts. It's a place where a passionate hobby has transformed into a major global operation, and for those lucky enough to get a tour, it provides an incredible educational experience. A visit here is a chance to see firsthand the dedication, care, and intricate processes that go into bringing the stunning aquatic life to pet stores all over the world.

Segrest Farms has a rich history rooted in the Florida fish farming capital. It has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the largest and most respected names in the industry. The business prides itself on its commitment to quality and ethical practices in sourcing and raising its vast inventory. While the primary business is wholesale, a significant and valuable offering is the opportunity for group tours. These tours provide an incredible, behind-the-scenes look at the operation. As one visitor noted, they got to see "all kinds of fish: both freshwater and marine," as well as "corals and other invertebrates." The tour guide was "friendly and answered all of our questions," which speaks to the staff's professionalism and passion for what they do. It’s clear from reviews that for people who have the chance to visit, it is a "very fun" and educational experience. This unique access to a world-class facility is a key part of what makes Segrest Farms a special place in the Florida community, providing a valuable resource for schools and groups interested in marine and freshwater biology.

Segrest Farms is located at 6180 Big Bend Rd, Gibsonton, FL 33534, USA. This address places it in a prime location in Hillsborough County, easily accessible from the greater Tampa Bay area, including nearby communities like Apollo Beach, Riverview, and Ruskin. Its proximity to major roadways makes it a convenient drive for groups traveling from across Central Florida. The facility demonstrates its commitment to visitor convenience and accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. These features ensure that the tour experience is inclusive and welcoming to all guests, regardless of their mobility. The location itself, a sprawling farm dedicated to aquaculture, is a testament to Florida’s unique role in the global ornamental fish trade. While it is not a traditional retail store open to the public for shopping, its physical presence and accessibility for scheduled tours make it a significant local landmark. The ease of access and the thoughtful accommodation for all visitors enhance the overall experience, making it a viable and attractive option for educational field trips and group outings.

The facility itself is a testament to the scale of the business. Within its extensive buildings, Segrest Farms houses a world of aquatic life, with thousands of tanks holding a dizzying array of species. A tour, as described by a customer, provides a deep dive into this complex ecosystem, showing everything from tiny fish to intricate corals. The environment is a vibrant and educational one, though one review noted it can be "a bit hot" due to "very little AC," which is understandable for a large-scale farm operation. This honest feedback helps set expectations for visitors, reinforcing that this is a working farm and not a climate-controlled retail space. The on-site experience is focused on providing a comprehensive look at the world of aquaculture. The knowledgeable guides, as highlighted in a review, are a key component of the visit, answering questions and sharing insights into the care and distribution of fish. The sheer variety and volume of life on display make it a truly memorable experience for anyone interested in the aquatic world. The ability to see so many different species in one place is a rare opportunity that is invaluable for students and hobbyists alike.

Given its business model as a wholesale distributor, Segrest Farms' services are tailored to its B2B clients and special tour groups. As such, the services available to the general public are distinct and primarily focused on education and experience. The main services and features accessible to a group that has arranged a visit are:

• A comprehensive guided tour of the farm, showcasing a vast array of freshwater and marine fish, corals, and invertebrates.
• Educational opportunities to learn about the process of raising, caring for, and distributing fish on a global scale.
• A chance to see different species of aquatic life, from common tropical fish to more unique specimens.
• The opportunity to ask knowledgeable guides questions about the various animals and the industry as a whole.
• The ability to pay for any merchandise or tour fees with convenient payment options, including credit and debit cards.

It is crucial to note that Segrest Farms is not a retail store for the general public. Individuals cannot walk in and purchase fish or supplies. Instead, its primary service to the community is through its educational tours and its role in supplying the very pet stores where Floridians can find healthy, quality fish for their own aquariums. This indirect relationship with the consumer is a vital part of the pet supply chain, and a tour of the facility provides valuable insight into this important industry.

Several key features make Segrest Farms a noteworthy and special business in the Florida landscape. These highlights distinguish it from a typical pet store and emphasize its unique role in the industry.

• World-Renowned Operations: Segrest Farms is recognized as a global leader in the wholesale distribution of tropical fish, a testament to its expertise and scale.
• Unique Tour Opportunities: The chance to go on a guided tour is a rare and invaluable experience, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a massive aquaculture operation.
• Expert and Friendly Guides: Customer feedback highlights the guides' ability to be informative, friendly, and engaging, making the tour a positive and educational experience.
• Accessibility: The facility is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, ensuring that tours are available to everyone.
• Payment Convenience: The business accepts credit and debit cards, offering easy payment for tour fees.
• Small Business Identity: The business identifies as a "small business," which in the context of its global reach, likely refers to its origins and its deep-rooted connection to the local community, despite its large size.

For more information on tour availability or other inquiries, you can contact Segrest Farms directly. Their team is best reached by phone to arrange visits and answer any questions.

Address: 6180 Big Bend Rd, Gibsonton, FL 33534, USA

Phone: (813) 677-9196

In a state with so many options for pet supplies, what is worth choosing is a business that offers a deeper connection to the hobby. For Floridians, a visit to Segrest Farms provides a unique opportunity to see where the tropical fish trade begins. While it is not a retail shop, its role as a key supplier to pet stores across the country makes it a crucial part of the ecosystem for aquarium enthusiasts. The opportunity for educational tours, as praised by a visitor, makes it a rewarding experience for students and families. It offers a chance to understand the scale and care required in the ornamental fish industry, which enriches the hobby for every pet owner. By choosing to visit this farm, you are not just seeing fish; you are gaining insight into a fascinating and vital part of Florida’s agricultural and pet industry. This experience, unlike a simple shopping trip, provides lasting knowledge and a new appreciation for the aquatic life in our homes.

Segrest Farms

6180 Big Bend Rd, Gibsonton, FL 33534, USA