Frag Swaps: What's Your Take?

Reefer Matt · Aug 10, 2023

It's almost time here in the U.S. for local frag swaps to startup for the season. I am a vendor at a couple swaps in my area, and hanging out with Reefers is a big reason why I do it.
I would like to know what your experiences have been (without naming vendors, please), and what you think can be improved upon or kept the same. Thanks!

NeedAReef · Aug 10, 2023

few swaps have more than frags. I always like seeing captive bred inverts, macro algae, different gear (even if it just marketing material) Back in the day when I went to a local reefer meeting monthly we usually had someone talking about different gear experiences and that was something we all learned a ton from.

Lavey29 · Aug 10, 2023

I went to a couple small frag swaps and it was cool with the hobbyist reefer selling his work. I bought some pieces just to support the hobby not because I really needed anything.

codenfx · Aug 10, 2023

It's always fun to walk around with like minded reefers all in one area. I wish frags were a bit bigger, there's a lot of tiny frags for such high cost making it not so enjoyable to shop.

I had a bad experience with one of the vendor at reefpalooza last week. One of his tank had the same corals with different price than the other tank, one being $150 and the other $300. I asked what's the difference between the corals on this tank and the other because to me they look the same. The guy said the price. I ask for more details like are the grade/colors different? He said it again the price. I just roll my eyes and walk away, never going to that vendor again. All I ask is be friendly, there's all sort of reefers who wants to learn and know what they're buying but with that attitude I'm walking away and avoiding.

PhishMonger84 · Aug 10, 2023

never done one or been to any aquarium event but i'd certainly be interested. I would have nothing to trade but i'd love the conversations and the chance to buy from the locals.