Here is my 5th tattoo of a Koi fish on my left side. It was done by Matt at Blue Flame in Raleigh, N.C. It symbolizes how I've swam through challenges such as my parents death, and other challenges as well as future challenges. So it's nice to have a tattoo that will forever have a meaning to me, as I journey through life.
Actually, that's the part that tickled. I don't think that tattoos really hurt- just tickle in sensitive areas. I just completed my second shading session- I'll post a pic by the end of the week. I love your koi- the colors are fantastic.