By: Devon Marshall
Only a few mere blocks from Rowan University on the conveniently named Fish Pond Road is USA Koi, a high quality Koi shop and supply store that is run by Mark Bodycott. Down a long stretch of gravel drive way, past Bodycott’s own residence is his place of business.
Upon reaching the end of the gravel drive way to the left stands a red Torii, which is the iconic Japanese archway that greets those who enter. Beyond the archway is sprawling landscape that is dotted with trees around the outer edge.
Following the winding pathway from the entrance way is an oriental styled water garden, with a number of pond and water enclosures for more than 2,000 high end imported Koi that Bodycott has on display.
“I turned a hobby into a business,” said Bodycott
Bodycott explained that while starting out, the business piqued his interest because the very best fish were more expensive than he could buy, so his original drive was to see fish that he couldn’t necessarily buy because of the high grade of the fish involved.
What spawned from an interest in water gardens became a ten-year occupation for Bodycott in the Glassboro area. Bodycott, who takes a yearly business trip to Japan to scout out the pedigree Koi that make up his business became interested in Koi and ponds because of the relaxing and peaceful nature of the fish.
“After a hard day, people want to chill pond-side with a glass of wine and cigar, its a kind of therapy,” said Bodycott.
On the same property as the custom built ponds, is a small store where USA Koi sells products like water pumps, drains, filters, Koi Food, medication, pond lighting, and even Koi books alongside DVDs. Bodycott prides himself on the upper echelon Koi that he sells. Every October, Bodycott flies to the land of the rising sun to visit a collection of 50-70 Koi breeding farms.
Koi enthusiasts are so high in number, that there are special Koi shows similar to competitive dog shows. The fish are judged by a variety of criteria such as body configuration, color, pattern and overall beauty, said Bodycott. Although Koi dealers are barred from entering competitive Koi shows, dealers like Bodycott are able to hold their head high with their stock of “show fish”.
“The good part is to supply you with a fish that wins a Koi show,” said Bodycott
The best part of Bodycott’s day is during the twilight hours when he makes his rounds feeding all of the fish.
“Its a chance to take a look at them, they are neat when they swim around,” said Bodycott
While crossing the threshold of the towering Torii entrance way and exiting down the gravel drive way, its difficult not the feel the tranquility of USA Koi lingering with you as you go about your day.
Hidden Glassboro 