The 2025 All American Koi Show Recap – Las Vegas, NV
May 13th 2025
The desert was buzzing with koi fever as the 2025 All American Koi Show made its splash in Las Vegas, NV—bringing together the best in the hobby from around the globe. From elite koi and cutting-edge vendors to world-class hospitality and celebration, this year’s show was one for the books.
Fitz’s Fish Ponds (FFP) came in full force, serving as a vendor, banquet sponsor, koi transport crew, and most importantly—a proud partner to customers who showed some of the most incredible fish of the weekend.
Full Team, Full Heart
Fitz’s Fish Ponds showed up with eight team members and transported over 25 koi to the show on behalf of customers.
These koi were hand-picked from top Japanese breeders like Sakai, Dainichi, Isa, Shintaro, Marusei, and more—some of the highest quality fish ever seen on American soil.
Whether assisting with tank setup or prepping fish for the ring, the FFP crew was all hands on deck.
Vendor Showcase
The show floor at the 2025 All American Koi Show was a vibrant hub of innovation, packed with some of the most recognized names in the pond and koi industry. Attendees had the chance to connect with top manufacturers and suppliers including Evolution Aqua USA, ProfiDrum, Atlantic Oase, EasyPro, Aquascape, POND Trade Magazine, the Professional Pond Companies Association (PPA), and Aqua Meds. These vendors—and many more—showcased the latest advancements in filtration, pond equipment, medications, and koi care, offering hobbyists and professionals alike a firsthand look at the tools shaping the future of the hobby.
Star-Studded Banquet Night
Saturday night brought the koi community together for an unforgettable banquet, proudly sponsored by Fitz’s Fish Ponds. As awards were announced and top honors revealed, guests were treated to a special live performance by Pepa of Salt-N-Pepa, bringing old-school energy to a room full of koi fans.
But the highlight of the night was the beautiful touch of culture—a special Japanese tradition of gift giving to the award winners. It was a heartfelt moment that paid homage to koi’s origins and reminded everyone of the respect and artistry at the core of this hobby. Laughter, cheers, and great food filled the air—it was truly a night to remember.
Celebrating Our Award Winners
We couldn’t be prouder of our customers who entered their koi and won prestigious awards. Each fish was a testament to years of care, selection, and partnership. And of course, a huge congratulations goes out to Herbert Fritch, who won the show’s Grand Champion Award!
Fitz’s Fish Ponds customers had an incredible showing at the 2025 All American Koi Show, taking home impressive awards across nearly every major category.
- Andrew Sandler of Polo Reef took home the Reserve Champion award with a koi from Sakai Fish Farm, and also received the Jumbo Koi Award and Showa Size 8, both bred by Dainichi, as well as Asagi Size 9 from Marusei and Doitsu Size 9 from Yagenji.
- James Profanato received the Kokugyo Size 8 award with a koi from Isa Koi Farm and also placed with a Sanke Size 8 from Shintaro.
- Aurily Sandler was awarded a Koromo Size 8 with a koi from Marusei Koi Farm.
- Fitz’s Fish Ponds also entered the show and earned Tancho Size 8 with a fish from Maruhiro Koi Farm, rounding out a powerful presence in nearly every top category.
- From FFP, Herbert Fritch’s entries were impressive, earning awards in multiple divisions. They included Hikari Kawari Size 4 and Size 5 with koi from Aoki, A Ginrin Size 8, Goshiki Size 8 from Kanno, and Tancho Size 9 from Marujyu.
Special congratulations to Herbert for winning the Grand Champion title!
Each of these awards highlights the beauty and quality of the koi and the trust these passionate hobbyists place in the FFP team for sourcing, growing, and preparing their fish for showtime.
Each award was more than a trophy; it reflected the dedication, trust, and shared success of the koi keepers and the FFP team.
Wrapping It Up
The 2025 All American Koi Show in Las Vegas was a shining celebration of the koi world. Between the elite competition, vendor networking, education, unforgettable entertainment, and deep-rooted cultural traditions, it reminded us why we love this hobby. Fitz’s Fish Ponds is honored to have been part of it and can’t wait to return even bigger and better next year.
See you at the next show! For updates, koi availability, or help preparing for your next competition, contact us today!
