Have you Talked Anyone Into Getting a Reef Tank?

[Gumbies R Us]

Some people might stumble upon the hobby because they liked the idea of having fish or coral at home, while others might get into the hobby due to a friend or family member getting them into the hobby. My question is have you gotten anyone into the hobby? How did it go for you? Or if you were talked into the hobby by someone, how did they convince you to join the hobby?

 

[steveschuerger]

No but I have talked into getting the gateway drug of a freshwater tank. Working on the reef with a couple people right now who are on the fence. See what happens.

 

[mike550]

There was a local pet store that would give out free coupons to the kids (K-5) at a school carnival for a free goldfish(?). Of course this would then bring the families into the store to get the free fish and buy the necessary items. Brilliant.

 

[doubleshot00]

I end up talking people out of it.

 

[Tamberav]

My friend asked me how to set up a freshwater tank as he knew I kept fish.

I told him I don’t know anything about freshwater fish (I really don’t) so I helped him set up a reef instead.

 

[exnisstech]

Not me. Don't get me wrong enjoy the challenges associated with a reef tank or 4 But I struggle enough with my own systems and feel as tho I would be responsible for assisting if I recruit someone and I just don't have the desire and I don't feel experienced enough to be a mentor.

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

I have but I like to be up front about the cost and difficulties that can be associated with it.

 

[ReefGeezer]

Absolutely not. This hobby is something people need to come to on their own. I may have scared a few away when discussing what is really required.

 

[vetteguy53081]

No - They just see mine and ask if they wanted one- Can I help them set it up

 

[FishDaddy1992]

I talked myself into it, does that count?

 

[Cthulukelele]

I've talked 5 people into starting freshwater tanks gateway systems and talked a 6th person (who I convinced to help me to set up the tank originally) to start a reef tank.

 

[vlangel]

I love my reef but understand this hobby is not for everyone.

 

[Spare time]

I was paid to do so lol

 

[o2manyfish]

I've had at least 4 friends end up with saltwater tanks after seeing mine. It was never come over and see it once and then run out and buy a reef setup. But after several visits and long conversations they have ended up getting involved in the hobby.

I will say that 3 of 4 ended up setting up the reef aquarium more as a house decoration, using a service company rather than becoming hobbyists (or addicts like us that live with wrinkled finger tips).

The fourth one that became a reefer and avid hobbyist -- Well, I'm pretty sure his wife hates me

Dave B

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I talked myself into it, does that count?

I say that counts haha

 

[Gumbies R Us]

I end up talking people out of it.

I feel like this is how it goes for me. They are interested at first, realize the cost then back out of it.

 

[EugeneVan]

I end up talking people out of it.

That is very true. Keeping a reef tank no matter what size is a big commitment with $$$$. If people are getting lazy doing the daily/weekly work (cleaning, feeding, testing, water change.........) You reef tank may turn into a nightmare for you

 

[EugeneVan]

No but I have talked into getting the gateway drug of a freshwater tank. Working on the reef with a couple people right now who are on the fence. See what happens.

I have a freshwater plant tank too. I love the mix of color in the fresh water plants.

 

[Reeflix]

yes, i have talked my friend into getting a saltwater fowlr tank, in the process of talking them into coral .Im almost victorious!!!

 

[Gumbies R Us]

yes, i have talked my friend into getting a saltwater fowlr tank, in the process of talking them into coral .Im almost victorious!!!

Only a matter of time til they get coral