In the world of breeding show quality koi, there are so many absolutely stunning, flawless fish that it almost seems an impossible request to ask the judges to choose just one champion fish at each competition. These show koi are treated like royalty and bread for their unique colors, strong patterns, and overall health. They are essentially the image you get when you imagine a koi fish: colorful and brilliant. What makes a koi fish worthy of being called a champion, though? Let’s take a look at the shusui variety of koi and what defines a shusui champion to better understand the level of...

Show level koi fish are truly a work of art. Carefully bred and raised to have specific colorations and patterns, these koi are stunning and virtually represent the rich craftsmanship that exists within traditional koi breeders.Truly, you will never find anything quite like a show koi anywhere outside of these carefully designed and protected breeding techniques.Showa koi, one of the big three species, really showcase this craftsmanship and carefully curated skill level in its tri-color patterning and stunning, bold hues.Let’s take a look at what makes a Showa Koi Grand Champion and discuss a few specific koi that have been...