What makes hobbyist fork out cash for fish....?

[aquitori]

With people posting an "Antiques road show of fish", it kinda makes me want to ask people what makes them fork out cash for fish....?

[Steve Nguyen]

besides the addictions? I would say nothing.

[mitten]

Well, Tonio, the fish are part of my life and I you know I am going to be taking care of fish, no matter what. My investment in fish is a lot smaller than what I've spent on ponds and systems. As my confidence in my systems and my skills improve I can allow myself to purchase cooler fish.

At the time of "forking out the cash" though, I am acting with a slurry of knowledge, clairvoyance, awe, intoxication and budget constraint. Ain't it like that for Aquitori?

Mickey the windowman

[Brutuscz]

Lots of different reasons. Sometimes, I just see an awesome specimen and wish to see if I can grow it out and win a medal. Some koi...worth nothing..but strictly because I like them. A few are purchased because I want a certain type from a specific breeder (a stupid reason...but a reason nevertheless). Such as wanting an utsuri from omosako or a showa from dainichi.

[Sangreaal]

What makes me shell out the green for my wet pets?

It's not the name of the breeder nor anyone's advice of what would be their idea of a show hopeful or what would be right for me or which one was the best in their not so humble opinion. It's not perfectly placed markings or ideal shades of colors or even the most correct conformation according to the experts that specialize in that variety. It's not even because it's 50% off day or a two for one special! *S*

Gee, that covers a lot of things that don't generally compel me to cut loose with my hard earned pocket change. So what on earth could make me break the bank and spend my last dime on fragile finfolk that can kick the bucket in more ways than one if all of its unique needs are not met every minute of every day, 24/7/365?

The fish has got to have "presence." It's the one that catches the eye and won't let it go for the grace and beauty of it, causing one's heart to feel as if it should surely burst with awe if that fateful gaze could not be broken. This fish not only has expression amongst the deadpan crowd it travels with, but it often has an attitude and knows how to use it. And it will have at least one element to its structure that I'm eager to study and watch develop to gain a deeper understanding of it. The fish will have something about it that I want to know up close and personal, and it's willing to tell. It has something urgent to teach me--and as my transfixed orbs trail the movements of this creature that I'm having some personal revelation with, I know without knowing that it is an ephemeral but necessary element of enrichment for my life that for some unknowable reason must not be left behind!

Thank God I'm not an impulse buyer.... *LOL*

Marie

[dick benbow]

Purchasing koi is no different to me than securing any pet. I want to have the one that brings me joy and companionship and brings me a feeling of restfulness and beauty.

3 decades ago when I started this cracyness, I hesitated over $40.00 for a yamabuki I wanted because it cost too much. A more learned student of water, I still struggle with a limited budget but have no hesitation in getting a koi that "speaks to me" if I can manage some way to pay for it.

koi and bonsai brings me a sense of accomplishment, and pleasure
while constantly challenging my learning and understanding.

besides what else could I do with my medium of exchange, but provide an income for families in Niigata and new jersey!

[keokoi]

You know me dude. If I like a fish I throw down some cash but it take a lot for me to spend money on koi. I don't even do it to just get a trophy. I buy and study my purchase for awhile until I release them to another home if they dont turn out. I think this year I only bought 1 koi. Too me that i not bad. My bank account thanks me..

Joe

[cocoyboy]

Funny things these koi, they make you want to buy them! I remember coming back from Kevin's shop with 6 for $100 thinking I got a lot for my money! Then moved up to buying fish at $150 to $300 through out the year. Had to have it, couldn't leave a dealer without buying something. I guess then it was the pattern that prompted me to buy fish? Then you start to learn more about fish, like conformation and start to look for the combined which ended up being more of a finished fish "for show". With all the fish in at this time will be the test to just look for something to grow and finish myself for self gradifaction. Even if this means not showing next year. I hope to maybe just buy 1 or 2 for this season.

But those damn things be calling at you, "take me home!" I aint gonna lie!!!!!

[jnorth]

Quote: Originally Posted by cocoyboy But those damn things be calling at you, "take me home!" I aint gonna lie!!!!!

That is no lie my friend .

[keokoi]

You guys are outta control.. Do you put koi in hold as well everywhere you go... HAHAHAH you would be in trouble if they had a layaway plan..

Joe