Something fishy will surface this weekend at the Lucas County Fairgrounds.

The Northwest Ohio Aquarium Society and the Glass City Aquarium Club are hosting what they plan to make a recurring spring and fall event for hobbyists and others in the region. The Aquarium Swap Meet slated from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday in the Stucco Building at the fairgrounds is free and open to the public. Pandemic-related restrictions, including a mask requirement, will be in place.

“What makes it more unique for us is that it hasn’t ever really happened in our area,” Andrew Errington, a board member of the society, said. “A lot of bigger cities have these big meets. It’s always been something we should have here.”

More than 30 vendors, including a number from neighboring states, will have fish, plants, equipment, supplies, and other goods available. Some rare varieties of fish are expected to be available, primarily from domestic breeding sources as opposed to wild-caught specimens.

“We want to promote responsible fish keeping in our local area and reduce the impact on sourcing fish from South America or Africa or wherever it may be,” Mr. Errington said.

Mr. Errington’s twin brother, Adam, is the society’s vice president and the coordinator of the event. He said the swap meet would be a great place for people curious about keeping aquariums to learn the basics, talk to experts, and purchase the necessary items.

Those who already have tanks but are looking to get more involved in aquariums can see what else is possible and get ideas for future improvements.

“Most people don’t realize how complex it can get,” Adam Errington said. “A lot of people look and see the normal fish at pet stores, but it can go extremely far.”

The swap meet is also a chance to socialize and network with other hobbyists and professionals, and learn more about different species.

“If someone can understand a species, they can respect where they come from and their habitat even more,” Adam Errington said.

First Published May 13, 2021, 6:36 p.m.