Quick Dot Point Guide: Is Fish Keeping Right for You?
Introduction
Fish keeping can be an incredibly rewarding and therapeutic hobby, but it’s not something to jump into blindly. When started incorrectly, it can be infuriating, upsetting, and a major waste of money. I’ve seen it happen time and time again—people excited to start their first tank, or just talking about keeping fish, only to set everything up, add fish, and watch them start dying within days.
This story is far too common. Many people end up missing out on this calming slice of nature in their homes simply because they were given the wrong advice to make a quick sale or didn’t realise just how much there is to learn before adding fish.
This guide is meant as a very basic checklist to help you see if fish keeping is right for you, so you can avoid these pitfalls. Use it as a reference when planning your tank, and remember, more detailed species-specific guides will be coming soon.
Essential Considerations
Do you have space for a tank that fits the species you want? Bigger tanks are generally easier to maintain.
Can you commit time for regular maintenance? Even a small tank needs weekly care.
Are you comfortable monitoring water quality and learning about the nitrogen cycle?
Do you have the budget for a tank, filter, heater (if needed), substrate, decorations, and fish food?
Are you prepared to research each species’ needs before purchasing them?
Basic Equipment Checklist
Aquarium (size appropriate for your chosen fish)
Filter (internal, sponge, hang-on-back, or canister depending on tank size)
Heater (for tropical fish)
Thermometer
Test kits (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH)
Substrate (gravel, sand, or aquasoil)
Lighting
Water conditioner/dechlorinator
Fish food (suitable for the species)
Maintenance tools (net, siphon, bucket)
Quick Tank Setup Checklist
Choose the location (stable, away from direct sunlight)
Add substrate and hardscape (rocks, wood, decorations)
Fill with dechlorinated water
Install filter and heater
Set up lighting
Cycle your tank (establish beneficial bacteria before adding fish)
Check water parameters regularly
Basic Care & Maintenance
Perform water changes weekly or fortnightly (20–40%)
Monitor temperature, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH
Feed appropriate portions; avoid overfeeding
Keep an eye on fish behaviour and health
Research and plan for compatible tankmates
Next Steps
This dot point guide is just a starting point—a simple checklist to help you see if fish keeping is right for you. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, check our in depth tank set up guide and common problems and mistakes or follow along we’ll share detailed species-specific guides.
