What makes a "Show" fish?

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MonteSS

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Jun 8, 2009
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Centra Virginia
My local CCA club is hosting ACA this year. I was thinking of possibly showing some fish. I think these are good examples of their species.

So what exactly makes a show fish?

Male Nic over two years old.
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Male HRP Rio Danli still young and maybe too small.
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Male Australoheros Oblongum over two years old.
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Thanks....Bill
 
While I'm no expert by any means a good show fish largely depends on who is judging the show as everyone has a different opinion. That being said, good finage with no tears, rips or shreds, as close to adult size as possible and good bloodlines determine a good show fish. I think all the fish you have above would be considered a good show fish and weather or not they place will largely depend on the judges. If I were close to the convention I would enter fish for sure, but being in Colorado I will just be a spectatar this year. Good luck and you should go for it, if nothing else its the experience of entering fish and talking with others that have fish in the show that will be the most fun, and of course you might win something, who knows. Also you need to isolate the fish prior to the show in a black bottom bare tank to condition them for the show and use a tank the same size as the tanks available at the ACA.
 
I really like your oblongum! I really need to get my butt to the ACA one of these years but I'm out in CA so I bit far for me...
 
Body, fin, color, and size covers what they are looking for.
 
Absolutely great looking stock, you can tell they are extremely well taken care of. That male Nic amazing!!!! Keep up the great work!!!!
 
I don't even care about show fish and show tanks. What does it matter? Are you in this hobby for your enjoyment, or being a tool that shows off all with the thought that maybe others are admiring you? This is not really directed at you MonteSS. I am just saying. If you like your fish and you think they are nice then that is all that matters not what matters to others.
 
Driftwood couldn't have said it any better, can't wait to be back in CO with you man. Was there for the ACA and wife was stationed in CO springs. Trying to get back there.

Honestly Monte All your fish look just fine to enter. The only one I would question would be the trails on the HRP. Looks like he has been nipped possibly. Just up his feedings and keep him in a calm tank and he should be ready to go. Good luck.
 
@PP
Yea but on some level we are, many of us at least, collectors. For one, if the fish weren't meant to be seen and displayed we wouldn't be keeping them in glass boxes. Secondly, there's something to be said for a big, vibrant specimen that someone has put the time and effort into raising and developing. It warrants a bit of recognition from other fishkeepers I think. Finally, sharing our successes in the hobby provides a model for others to follow. Even if only to show us how much better our fish could look.
@monte
I would show that nic but, as previously stated, I'd condition him for a few months in a tank of his own with small, daily water changes. I've also found that keeping my water a tad on the cooler side, with less frequent feeding has a positive effect on color and brightness. Also, a consistent photo period is beneficial too ime. I've never won an award or even shown a fish so take what I say with a fistful of salt. Speaking purely from personal experience.
 
Pyramid_Party;5015710; said:
I don't even care about show fish and show tanks. What does it matter? Are you in this hobby for your enjoyment, or being a tool that shows off all with the thought that maybe others are admiring you? This is not really directed at you MonteSS. I am just saying. If you like your fish and you think they are nice then that is all that matters not what matters to others.
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ok, where to begin on this one? to each their own maybe? you bring a fish to a show because you are proud to show your prowess as a good fish keeper and being able to maintain your pets in top condition? what's wrong with that? i don't see how anyone would perceive you to be a 'tool'?
if you're one of those guys who keeps fish for just enjoyment, great that's cool too. i don't see anything wrong with being proud of what you are doing and seeing whether your pet can get any prizes - there's a certain amount of joy to be had in that recognition.

having said that, i think some people have already pointed out the makings of a show fish (never tried it before, but i can imagine what it will be like) - good characteristics that represent that particular species. good state of health, finnage, colors, out going personality in a sense, well fed but not obese, no deformities, no disease etc.

i think out of your fish the oblongum and nic could do well, i don't know what everyone else has. but all the best and let us know what happens!
 
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