help me pick him out!!!

[fcbarrelracer]

i am planning on picking out a new betta, i the next week, from our lfs or a petsmart or or petco so..
i want to get a younger one if possible (so he'll be around longer)
a unique or pretty color
pretty fins
healthy
a good personality
etc.
how can i tell all of these? how can i pick out the "perfect" (or as close to ) betta?
also what does your favorite betta look like and how did you know he was the one?
thanks

 

[White Whale]

Forget the color and go for the fin condition. They should be clean and evenly spaced, no matter what tail/fin-type you choose. No curls at the tips as the fin rays should be flowing with the water when relaxed. The entire webbing should be evennly-spaced and extended to the fullest when flaring. Again, no curls.

Good form can overcome a bad color combination, but good color will never overcome poor quality in form.

Good form = good health, no matter what the personality.

I know this now by looking at the bettas I have.
It's OK to rescue if you have the room. Otherwise, go with form over color.