08/24/2026
The only appropriate way to handle that goldfish you won at the fair!
We recently attended the Missouri state fair in Sedalia, MO and one of the games was giving goldfish and koi as the prize. 1 ball won a goldfish and 8 balls won a koi. They had this elaborate setup with containers and koi/goldfish in tanks at each corner of the game display. I decided to play the game and see what the protocol was for the winner. Once I “won” (I made one ball out of a basket of balls into a cup) my little comet goldfish was fished out of a trash bin, already pre bagged and handed to me. The carney had to pull 3-4 dead bagged fish before producing my little one that was barely alive. No plastic container. No care advice. He simply stated “that ones swimming, so you’ve got a good one” I asked “how much can I pay for a koi?” He said “too much”
I witnessed several people win these little fish and just handed a plastic bag and essentially a “good luck, thanks for your $10+” 🤦🏻♀️
Comet goldfish commonly live 30+ years. Koi, significantly longer. That .69 fish you win at the fair, could very well be passed down to your kids if cared for properly. Heaven forbid anyone actually make 8balls. I asked what happens if no one wins a koi? The carney explained that they get “returned” to where they were purchased from 🙄 😒 I’ve seen these animals literally tossed in the trash after the fairs are over like garbage. I decided to play their little game hoping to give at least one a chance. Most people see a cute little fish and no commitment or are given the complete wrong care advice. Being told they’ll only grow to their environment. Truth be told, these fish grow no matter what, if proper care is provided. A 75 gallon tank is even way too small; and their cheap price draws in a lot of inexperienced caregivers. Hopefully, one day, this won’t be a thing anymore. But for now, welcome Mo to our little rescue and we hope you enjoy this 75gallon aquarium while your pond is being constructed for 2027 🩵
