If you are looking for an aquarium club, check the internet for listings of clubs available by state or even country. Some clubs will be general, while others focus on specific types of fish. This can be useful if you are raising rare fish and need some help.

Some clubs require a monthly or annual membership fee, while others are free except for specific events. Depending on where you live, you could have a large group divided into specialties or a smaller number of club members. The learning aspect will probably emphasized over the social, though both are important.

Aquarium clubs offer a lot to their members. You will be able to talk to other hobbyists, which is invaluable in itself. Many clubs will provide talks, field trips or other presentations for their members, to help educate them on specific aspects of keeping aquariums. Often, you be able to listen to speakers and read information that may not be readily available to the average hobbyist. Speakers, expert demonstrations and deals at the local shops are just a few of the benefits you can expect from joining an aquarium club.

An aquarium club can be a wonderful way to learn more about keeping fish. You will likely meet other people with similar interests that you can stay in touch with and learn from, as well. It is a great experience, and most clubs will allow you to attend a meeting or two before deciding if you want to join up, so you can see if it is worth your while.

How to Start and Run an Aquarium Club

Having an aquarium club near you can be a great way to meet with other people as passionate about fish as you are. However, not all areas have an aquarium club. That doesn't mean you have to miss out, though. Why not start your own? It isn't as difficult as it might seem at first glance.

Finding Members

You will need at least a couple other people to join in order to have a successful aquarium club, so that means attracting some members. Pick a day to meet and start looking for others who share your interest. You might want to put up flyers at local pet shops or anywhere that you might find aquarium supplies. An ad in the paper can also be a good way to go. If you want to go online, sites like Meetup.com can be an excellent way to not only form a group, but also to keep them up to date as to when and where each meeting will be.

Meetings

How often your aquarium club meets will depend mostly on personal preference and how available everyone is. Twice a month or monthly meetings are probably the most common.

Make sure your meetings are useful to members. While there should always be some time for socializing, providing value is good, too. Organizing informational talks, showing an aquarium related video or even hosting a workshop at the local aquarium shop will attract more members. You may wish to charge a small fee to cover expenses if necessary, but keep in mind that a free meet up will attract more hobbyists.

Running your own aquarium club might require a bit of work, but the ability to connect with others sharing your interest in fish is invaluable.