E&E Tropical Fish

New pet store opens in Big Rapids

On Sunday, Jan. 28, the grand opening of E&E Tropical Fish brings exotic pets to Big Rapids.

E&E Tropical Fish is a new store in Big Rapids that has a large selection of fish and reptiles, as well as all of the supplies to care for them. This store is the only fish and reptile store in town.

A tank of juvenille Chichlids inside the newly opened pet store. Photo Credits: Jordan Wilson l Multimedia Editor

Eric Maxon, a dedicated enthusiast from the Big Rapids area, has cultivated a profound love for fish since his involvement in the Grand Valley Aquarium Club. With a decade-long board membership, Maxon recognized the need for a store that carries tropical fish and reptiles, as well as all of their needed supplies in the Big Rapids area so he decided to be the one to open it.

As he’s enthusiastic about the selection of fish he carries, he has a large range from guppies to tropical stingrays which he breeds. From food to tanks, he carries many supplies for the animals.

Maxon emphasized the significance of thorough research for potential buyers, urging them not to make choices based solely on appearances.

Although some tanks and cages were empty due to shipment delays, they will soon be filled with various species. Lucas Gill | Demo 64

“They should just do a little bit of research on what type of fish they want and don’t just go buy how pretty it is. Some of [the fish] that you’re buying that are only one inch can get up to 10 – 12 inches,” Maxon said.

Choosing Big Rapids for his storefront was a deliberate decision for Maxon. While he recognized the community’s potential, he felt driven by a desire to contribute. He envisions his store not just as a business but as a vital community asset.

His goal is to make a positive impact on the lives of local pet owners. By offering a diverse range of fish, from exotics to college-friendly options and a selection of reptiles, Maxon is determined to establish his store as a convenient and accessible resource for pet care needs in Big Rapids.

His commitment to the community extends beyond providing quality products, aiming to create a welcoming space for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

“What I am looking forward to is meeting new people, but also bringing a store to the community that people can enjoy and they don’t have to make a long trip just to get feeders or supplies for their pets,” Maxon said.

Around 30 people attended the grand opening as the store showed off their selection of bearded dragons, geckos, toads and snakes.

Big Rapids local Sarah Lehecka said she planned to rekindle her hobby of taking care of fish because of the opening of the store.

“We used to have big saltwater fish tanks and we are looking to try to bring that hobby back into our lives,” Lehecka said. “We’re really thrilled a store like this was opening, as your only other option around here is Meijer to get fish.”

Because of the lack fish stores in the town, members of the community had a need for a place for them to convientley get pet supplies and fish.
“We usually have to drive all the way out to visit Grandville to go to places like this,” Lehecka said.

Ferris criminal justice senior Lily Vella has a leopard gecko at home and a couple of fish tanks. She now doesn’t have to drive to Grand Rapids to get food or other supplies for her animals anymore.

Both Lehecka and Vella were happy with the selection of fish, suppies and other animals.
This store shortens the drive for all Big Rapids locals. E&E Tropical Fish is on 10495 Northland Drive and is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.