Aspiring fishkeeping here, looking for some tips.

[Satinangora]

Well recently I've become very interested in fish and I've decided that I'd really like to try my hand at keeping a few. Here's what I'd like to know:

-What equipment do I need?

-What are a good type of "Starter fish"?

-Any articles, tips, or words of wisdom you might have, I'm here to learn

If anyone could provide me with some answers I'd really appreciate it. Thanks

 

[Rivershark]

Take your time and do your research first. Learn about cycling and get it down. http://monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=224559

You're equipment (tank, stand, heater, filter, etc.) will depend on your wallet and what kind of fish you want. Livebearers (guppies, platys, swordtails) are good starter fish. Then you can work your way into a wide variety of community fish. When you've learned how not to kill them you can step it up to more monster fish. Lots of good info on this forum. Use the 'search' tool to help you find info on different topics. Happy fishkeeping to you!

 

[Satinangora]

Thank you very much I assume that I can find a water testing kit at fish shop right?

 

[fisher12889]

Thank you very much I assume that I can find a water testing kit at fish shop right?

Yes, make sure you get an API test kit, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and ph are the most important for freshwater.

 

[kjfan1]

Good luck and feel free to ask us any questions you may have. Welcome to MFK

 

[boldtogether]

Buy the biggest aquarium you can afford. Reason; It's a lot eaiser to take care of. Really. The water paramiters you will be after won't be as easily affected in a larger tank. If you over feed, under clean or forget to turn the heater back on after a water change,etc...these wont affect the overall condition of the tank as dramatically as they would in a smallish tank. I am a firm believer in buying good used equipment first and see how it goes...a good used 50-60gal tank. Glass wont scratch like acrylic, acrylic is stronger and lighter than glass. A hang-on-back type filter (or two) will give you the easiest maintenance regimen, but try and get one that will give decent bio-capacity, like one with a bio-wheel or bio-sponge or other such media. A sturdy stand is essential to keep the tank on and make sure the tank has a lid.Buy a NEW heater, make sure you have an understanding of the requirements of the fish you buy as far a diet and temp. Fish that you get that will require a specific anything can tend to be frustrating to new aquarist.
And finally, dont take anyone's word for gospel...we all have our own way of doing and you'll be able to, in time, figure out what works for you. Use this sight, don't be affraid to Google something and don't forget the library. Arm yourself with knowledge and this hobby can be very fulfilling!
WELCOME TO FISH KEEPING! WELCOME TO MFK!

 

[Scorponok]

Just don't ask lazy questions.....use google.

 

[MrA123]

Yeah get a min of a 50 GAL tank to start with. I had a tiny tank when I first got hooked and then with in a week or two upgraded it to a much bigger one. Buy the highest capacity filter you can afford that has the best output, this will let you stock more fish and keep your water quality good. As per advice before do alot of research on the type of fish you want to keep.

 

[souljah2009]

once u get thru the cycle which will seem like forever then u can get what ever fish u want just add slow ....like everyone else said get the biggest tank u can for one its easier and two ull want it a few months later plus if u have a bigger tank u can get bigger monsters haha good luck to u dude im not the best person to talk to but if u need help with some thing message me ill try my best or point u in the right direction GOOD LUCK welcome to mkf

 

[carsona246]

Here's my two cents, if you research well enough ahead of time and understand the nitrogen cycle, get a ten gallon, and a dwarf puffer. Best small fish I've ever owned, and I like to start small. Those are freshwater just so you know. Its definalty harder to start with a small tank, but once you master owning a smaller tank the bigger tanks will seem much easier, and it will let you know whether you actually like the hobby before you start spending a lot of money on it. However, whatever you decide to get, make sure you research a ton before you buy it. The time it takes your tank to cycle should be enough to decide. When I first started I would always find the perfect fish for me after I bought the fish for my tank, and I always regretted it, which is why I always research everything before I purchase my fish now.