Finding Your Flow in Fishkeeping: Trends, Advice & Staying True to Your Passion
Fishkeeping is a wonderfully unique hobby—one that allows us to create living art and connect with the natural world in our own homes. Like many visually appealing hobbies, it often follows trends—certain species become popular, tank styles evolve, and new aquascaping techniques emerge. But one of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned through our journey in fishkeeping is this: the best aquarium is the one that makes you happy.
Trends vs. Personal Preference
It’s easy to feel drawn toward the latest trend, especially when we see fellow aquarists sharing stunning setups online. Nano planted aquascapes, for example, are currently very popular, and for good reason—they’re beautiful and compact. But if your true passion lies in caring for and breeding goldfish, don’t feel pressured to follow the crowd. Stick to what brings you joy.
The same goes for equipment choices. If sponge filters work well for you and suit your style of fishkeeping, there’s no need to switch to canister filters just because they’re currently favoured. This hobby should reflect your preferences, not others’ opinions. After all, you are the one who gets to enjoy your aquarium every day.
That said, it’s also worth keeping an open mind. If you’re feeling inspired or your passion for the hobby is evolving, trying something new could unlock a whole new layer of enjoyment.
Exploring New Areas of Fishkeeping
One common pattern we’ve observed is fish keepers becoming comfortable—sometimes too comfortable—with a particular type of setup or species. While there’s nothing wrong with sticking to what works, stagnation can lead to a loss of interest.
If you’ve always kept freshwater fish but have been curious about saltwater setups, why not give it a try? If you’re drawn to planted tanks, biotope aquariums, or species-specific projects—explore them! Sometimes a new challenge is exactly what we need to rekindle our enthusiasm.
Evaluating Information Sources
As fishkeeping continues to grow in popularity, so does the volume of advice online. Blogs, forums, YouTube videos, and social media can all be valuable sources of information—but it’s essential to approach them critically.
Not all advice is created equal. When evaluating a source, consider the experience behind it. Does the person giving advice have a healthy, thriving aquarium? Are they speaking from experience, or repeating something they’ve read or heard elsewhere?
We recommend cross-referencing at least two or three reputable sources before adopting new advice. There are excellent reef aquarium professionals and seasoned aquascapers sharing valuable, experience-backed insights. At the same time, forums can be incredibly helpful—just be prepared to filter through varying opinions to find what’s actually useful.Most importantly, remember that what works for one aquarium may not work for another. Each setup is unique, and factors like water parameters, lighting, and fish compatibility can dramatically affect outcomes.
Learning Through Challenges
Fishkeeping can be incredibly rewarding—but it’s not without its challenges. We’ve all faced tough situations: algae overgrowth, sudden illness, unexpected tank crashes. When things go wrong, it’s tempting to take a break or give up altogether. But we encourage you to view setbacks as learning opportunities.
Mistakes can lead to better understanding and more resilient aquariums. Share your experiences, seek advice from fellow hobbyists, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The community is often more supportive than you might expect.
Patience is Key
Many aspects of fishkeeping take time. Whether it’s cycling a new tank, encouraging breeding behaviours, or solving persistent algae problems—progress doesn’t happen overnight. Patience is one of the most important virtues any aquarist can develop.
Keep the Fish in Focus
Every aquarium we create should prioritize the health and well-being of its inhabitants. When setting up a new tank, research the species you plan to keep and ensure their needs are met from the start. A long-term, sustainable setup is far more rewarding than a short-lived one based on aesthetics alone.
By focusing on longevity and proper care, we not only ensure the happiness of our fish—we also deepen our connection to the hobby.
Enjoy the Experience
Whether you’re maintaining a simple beginner setup, a thriving reef tank, or a high-tech aquascape, remember to pause and enjoy what you’ve created. Aquariums are more than just a hobby—they’re a source of calm, inspiration, and beauty. Taking even a few minutes each day to observe your aquatic world can be a powerful way to relax and recharge.
At AQUAtechniques, we’re passionate about helping hobbyists of all levels find joy in fishkeeping. Whether you’re just starting out or exploring new avenues, always remember: your aquarium is your personal creation. Make it yours and enjoy every step of the journey and if you ever need a professional helping hand: you know where to find us.