4 replies to this topic

[Koillector]

I'm in the final stages of completing my pond. I now want to know what to look for when buying koi. I prefer to buy specific types and not just random ones that catch my eye. I'd like to know what they are called and what I'm looking at as far as a good fish. Is there a book or website that would steer me in the right direction?

[koikeepr]

This is pretty handy. But you can just google search koi varieties and many sites and suggested books will pop up.

However, whether you think so or not, at the end of the day, it will be about what catches your eye. Koi are like snowflakes--no two are alike. "Good fish" has nothing to do with a specific type. A good fish is in the eye of the beholder at the end of the day. And I've seen plenty of good looking pond "mutts" too.

Of course there are certain standards that experts may like to see in a specific type of fish, and that may or may not appeal to you.

Regardless of type, the first and foremost thing is to buy a HEALTHY fish from a respectable breeder or shop who is passionate about quality care. I have a particular local shop that I buy from because they consistently have good fish at reasonable prices that appeal to me. They also purchase from a KHV (koi herpes virus) tested breeder, so I know that I'm not going to be introducing a problem into my pond. In the early fall I buy from a local koi breeder when he opens his mud ponds to the public for his Fall Harvest.

And, to be frank, your wallet will also dictate things, as koi can be very expensive. There are some who love a 5 inch Petsmart koi for $15.99 and that's what they can afford and they are happy with that. And there are those that want the luxury fish and will pay whatever $ that demands.

Where do you fall in the spectrum? And what are you willing to pay per fish?

[Oldhead]

I like this site alot. It helped me figure out what i have.http://www.koivillage.com/koiid/

[Koillector]

I don't intend to spend at the most $200.00 for one. Not saying I'll spend that. I don't see myself adding them too fast. I'm more interested in learning the names and knowing what to look for. I'm curious to know locally who would have the best ones to choose from. I so need to get this computer fixed and a printer hooked up. lol That would help a bunch! Make me some flash cards.

[DrDave]

Koillector said:

I'm in the final stages of completing my pond. I now want to know what to look for when buying koi. I prefer to buy specific types and not just random ones that catch my eye. I'd like to know what they are called and what I'm looking at as far as a good fish. Is there a book or website that would steer me in the right direction?

Please go to the User CP at the top of this page and add your location. That will help responders direct you to local sources for Koi.

As for your choice of Koi, some go for a variety, some focus on a certain types, some don't care and others focus on ones that are perfect!

What are your goals?