Koi at Muskoka Water Gardens
This page is dedicated to the koi themselves—for those who love living water and want to understand the fish at the heart of it.
We carry koi suitable for both new ponds and established systems.
Our Koi Collection
We usually have over 2,500 koi in stock in season, with a range of sizes and varieties. From young fish for new ponds to aged select koi for established systems, our collection is curated for those who appreciate the living art of water gardens.
Young koi for new ponds
Select larger koi for established systems
Specialty patterns and varieties
Gentle note: Koi are living animals and availability changes with each season. We recommend discussing what might suit your water garden during your consultation.
Subject to seasonal availability
Traditional Japanese-Lineage Breeding
Each spring, we breed our koi following traditional Japanese methods, prioritizing line quality and long-term health over mass production. Our process is deliberate and artisanal, focused on maintaining the strong genetics and physical resilience required for Muskoka ecosystems. We select for vibrant patterns and robust confirmation, ensuring every fish represents the heritage of its lineage.
We work with strong genetics and careful selection, in conversation with what nature allows each year.
Respect for Genetics, Nature & Care
Our philosophy is rooted in a deep accountability to mother nature. We work with her rhythms rather than against them, designing and maintaining ecological systems where koi don't just survive, but truly thrive.
Muskoka Climate Resilience
We prioritize long-term fish health specifically for the dynamic seasonal shifts of Muskoka climates.
Water Quality Foundation
Water quality is the foundation of everything we do; clean water is the natural byproduct of balanced biology.
Expert Selection & Care
We help you choose koi that harmonize with your pond’s design and your individual experience level.
If you’d like to talk about koi for your current or future pond, we’re happy to discuss what’s in season and what might suit your water garden.
Koi Grading & Price Ranges
Koi are graded by size, body shape, pattern, skin quality and clarity. This meticulous selection ensures we offer a consistent standard of excellence, though please note that not all varieties are available in every size throughout the year.
Smaller & Young Koi
Select Medium Koi
High-Grade Specimen
Pond‑ready small koi: typically $49–$99 CAD each, ideal for new ponds or growing-on.
Select medium koi: typically $99–$199 CAD each, suited to established systems where you want a few standout fish.
High‑grade and larger koi: typically $199–$999+ CAD each, individually priced based on lineage, quality, and demand.
Packages and multi‑tier wholesale purchasing are available for orders of approximately 100 fish or more—please contact us to discuss current availability and pricing.
Note: Koi are living animals; availability and specific pricing change with each season and shipment. Current stock is assessed during private appointments to ensure health and variety.
Koi Questions & Fun Facts
Are koi goldfish?
While both are members of the carp family, they are distinct species. Koi are specifically bred for their large body size, diverse patterns, and overall skin quality, which sets them apart from the common goldfish.
How long can koi live?
With consistent water quality and high-level care, koi can live for several decades. Some legendary koi in Japan have been known to live for over a century, making them a true multi-generational investment.
Can koi stay outside all year?
Yes, even in Muskoka. In a properly designed, winter-ready system with a minimum depth of four feet and active aeration to keep a hole in the ice, koi can safely over-winter in our Northern climate.
Do koi recognize people?
Koi are surprisingly intelligent and social fish. They learn to associate their keepers with feeding and will often follow people around the pond perimeter or even come to the surface for hand-feeding.
Where do koi originate?
Koi are essentially ornamental carp (Nishikigoi) with roots in 19th-century Japan. They were originally bred by rice farmers who noticed striking color mutations among common carp and began selectively breeding for beauty.
Book a Koi Appointment
We invite you to visit us by appointment only to view and select from our current koi collection. Whether you are looking for your first fish or a specific variety for an established system, we ensure a focused and educational selection process. Please note that all selections are subject to seasonal availability and the health of the fish.
If you’re looking for something specific, you can mention size, colour, or variety when you book.