Big Fish Aquarium

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re starting your first tank or you’re an experienced reef keeper, find answers to common questions about Big Fish Aquarium, WYSIWYG corals, shipping, store policies and the areas we serve.

General Questions

Where is Big Fish Aquarium located?

Big Fish Aquarium is located in Chicago, Illinois, near the West Side and Western Suburbs. We’re proud to serve local freshwater, saltwater and reef aquarium hobbyists throughout the Chicago area.

Customers regularly visit us from Oak Park, Berwyn, Cicero, Forest Park, Brookfield, Lyons, North Riverside, Riverside, Austin, Downtown Chicago, Skokie, Morton Grove, Glenview and surrounding communities.

Do you serve customers outside Chicago?

Yes. We welcome local customers from throughout the Chicago metro area, and eligible products from our online catalog can be shipped throughout the continental United States.

Local communities we regularly serve include:

Oak Park
Berwyn
Cicero
Forest Park
Brookfield
La Grange
North Riverside
Riverside
Elmwood Park
Austin
Humboldt Park
Garfield Park
Downtown Chicago
Skokie
Morton Grove
Glenview

WYSIWYG Corals & Livestock

What does WYSIWYG mean?

WYSIWYG means “What You See Is What You Get.” Each coral in our WYSIWYG section is individually photographed so you can see the exact specimen you’re purchasing.

How often are WYSIWYG corals updated?

New WYSIWYG corals are added weekly and selected for color, health and uniqueness. Check the WYSIWYG collection regularly for newly available specimens.

Shipping & Pickup

What items do you ship?

We currently ship:

  • WYSIWYG corals via FedEx Overnight
  • Dry goods via standard FedEx Ground or Home Delivery

We do not ship freshwater fish, marine fish, invertebrates or plants.

Where do you ship?

We ship eligible WYSIWYG corals and dry goods throughout the continental United States.

Which shipping carrier do you use?

Shipments are sent through FedEx. Tracking information is provided so you can monitor your delivery.

When are WYSIWYG corals shipped?

WYSIWYG corals are shipped Monday through Wednesday to reduce the risk of weekend delays. Coral shipments are sent overnight through FedEx.

Can I pick up my online order in-store?

Local pickup is only available for in-store purchases.

Online orders, including WYSIWYG corals and dry goods, cannot be picked up in-store.

Live Arrival Guarantee

Do you guarantee live arrival on WYSIWYG corals?

Yes. WYSIWYG coral shipments are protected by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

To qualify:

  • Email bigfish@bigfishaquariums.com within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Include clear photos of the coral while it is still in the unopened bag.
  • The package must be received on the first delivery attempt.

The guarantee is void if:

  • Delivery is missed or delayed due to customer availability.
  • The bag is opened before photos are taken.
  • You do not contact us within 2 hours of delivery.

Ordering & Returns

Can I change or cancel my order?

Contact us immediately at bigfish@bigfishaquariums.com .

Orders can only be modified or canceled before they have been packed or shipped.

Do you accept returns?

WYSIWYG corals: All sales are final. Returns and exchanges are not accepted.

Dry goods: Unopened items may be eligible for return within 14 days. Contact Big Fish Aquarium for approval before returning an item.

Still Have a Question?

Contact Big Fish Aquarium and our team can help point you in the right direction.