Rick's Reef

While rick may seem weird at first what really intelligent person does not. Rick is a nice and intelligent fellow who really knows his stuff. While I did not know if we would get along at first, now I look forward to going. I love picking someone's brain who doesn't mind. All you get is knowledge. If you are looking for someone who knows there stuff ricks the guy.

I have been buying from him for years, I got out of the hobby for a few years, but have always stopped in to say hi. Once you get to know him, he is a great guy. Always has some cool new project with the latest tech going on. Even if you dont agree with him, or feel there is a different way to do something, I guarantee that if you follow his advice, you WILL succeed.

So Rick's is closed on Wednesday and Thursday. I could not find store hours prior to driving over on Thursday. I hopped out and the infamous dog was at the door barking so I knocked. From the negative reviews, I expected noone to answer or to be extremely rude. NOPE!!! Rick opened, I held up a part I wanted to get replaced, and before I could speak I was invited inside. I needed a bulkhead fitting that I had not been able to find even online, but Rick had it. I also had a RO filter that had been sitting empty in a closet for 8 months. So Rick tested it for me. He had an answer to every question I had (I had a lot). He talked a little over my head, but dumbed it down once I let him know I was confused. After about 30 mins of testing. He said I was good (could be better) and sent me on my way. He did pressure me to buy anything. All this on a day that he was closed.



Pros: An abundance of knowledge and experience. Rick truly wants his customers to understand what they are doing.



Cons: I think his prices are little high, but they are comparable to the other shops on that side of town. Rick is a little of a smart @$$. He's not overly rude, but he just doesn't have the best tact. If you want pleasentries over valuble information and an actual understanding of what you are doing then Rick's may not be for you.

For everyone who poo-poo's Rick i would say.. given.. he definitely is not your BestBuy floor salesman, and he is not Captain Social with people he has just met, however, once you get to know him you will find that hes a real nice guy and very knowledgeable about his business. His prices, i think, are the best in town(sold me a used 90 gallon deepsea with 3/4" thick glass for $150), and he provides quality pieces as well as advice. If you want but- kissing customer service who will sell you anything you want no matter your ability to keep them alive, i guess dont go to Ricks. If you want quality Corals, fish, live rock and equipment at great prices definitely go to Ricks. As for complaining about his dog?? You must also hate ice-cream and cuddly kittens, as that is one of the sweetest dogs ive ever met.

I thought ricks reef is a great place to buy saltwater equipment and fish from. The owner is awsome he answer all my question and help me with everything i need i love his shop and will return he knowa what hes doing when it comes to fish

I have purchased from Rick a few times. He has GREAT corals at a good prices! His specimens are very healthy and well adjusted, He will direct you (strongly) to what he thinks you can handle as a hobbist based on your expirience level and knowllege. Some what of a character but not totally on the left field.He does talk a lot!

This guy Rick is a weirdo! I walked in yesterday only to have his dog jump on me, and after trying to be nice because I do love dogs, I got ticked that the dog kept on. He just stood there and finally told his dog to get away. Then he offered no advice on aquariums!!! I am trying to buy my wife an aquarium for Christmas and willing to spend at least a grand and this guy looked at me and made me feel stupid. I thought he was a homosexual the way he stared me down! He obviously has no social skills and I have no idea how he can have a business! No one should go in there unless you wanna feel uncomfortable!

I went into the store and was offered no help, there were 3 men just chatting away. After about 20 minutes I just walked out. I will never return. Customer service is #1 in my book. I shouldn't have to interrupt your conversation with your friends to get some help. Also, the store was very small, and a little unkept.

The owner cares about the animals that come into his store. I feel that he likes to sell to people that are not going to take the fish or invertebrate home and kill it because they didn't do any research. Its a good practice, I mean, he could just sell it to you and make more money when you come buy a new one after you kill it. I think more people should be this way. Go to petsmart if you're not hardcore.

While this store may have beautiful and well-cared-for marine fish and coral, Rick (the owner) is a very disagreeable person. He's repeatedly made me feel ignorant and has offered little to no constructive advice. I'll never return.