Native Midwestern Fish

[jossswonk]

I'm thinking about setting up a tank with native fish species. Does anyone have any recommendations? I would like smaller species of fish than can be found in Midwestern U.S.

 

[emeraldking]

Is there a zoo in your area which has an aquarium with native fish? So, you can get inspired how to set up yours and the fish you can choose...

 

[jossswonk]

Unfortunately there aren't any zoos in my area that have native fish species.

 

[Magnum Man]

Cabela's & Bass Pro Shops maintain aquariums in most of their stores, if you want inspiration... floor to ceiling aquariums, always inspire me...

 

[jossswonk]

Do they have smaller "prettier" species?

 

[Magnum Man]

mostly sporting fish... smaller are usually Blue Gills, Sun Fish, Pumpkin Seeds, Crappies, etc...

there are a lot of awesome fish in the minnows, Rainbow shiners for one, stickle backs maybe...

you could look here ( I've not bought from them ) but they have a lot of pictures...

Jonah's Aquarium - We sell native fishes - Shipping to the USA - Fish List

 

[jossswonk]

Thank you! This is very helpful! Is it legal if I catch my own fish?

 

[emeraldking]

Unfortunately there aren't any zoos in my area that have native fish species.

That's unfortunate...
Hopefully, some members are able to give you other tips...

 

[Back in the fold]

Thank you! This is very helpful! Is it legal if I catch my own fish?

You had better check with your State Fish and Game people . If it isn’t legal and you get caught without a license it could be a hefty fine . Also , get yourself a Peterson Field Guide to North American Freshwater Fishes . Another resource is The North American Native Fish Association . Jonah’s Aquarium also sells some native fish .

 

[fishorama]

I would check out NANFA & state site as Back in the fold said. It's been a long time since I looked there. Some native species are very colorful like some darters, etc. But I have no idea about size or husbandry. There used to be a buy & sell there too.

Your local library may have books or other info too. Ask for help, librarians can be very helpful and they'd probably love to do something different if it's not busy.