Fishin' Blues
The Lovin’ Spoonful Lyrics
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Reached right back and got me a pole.
Went to the hardware and got me a hook.
Attached that line right on that hook.
Says you've been a-fishin' all the time.
I'm a-goin' fishin' too.
I bet your life, your lovin'wife.
Any fish bite if you've got good bait.
Here's a little somethin' I would like to relate.
Any fish bite, you've got good bait.
I'm a-goin' a-fishin', yes, I'm a-goin' a-fishin',
I'm a-goin' a-fishin' too.
Looked down the river about one o'clock.
Spied this catfish swimmin' around.
I've got so hungry, didn't know what to do.
I'm gonna get me a catfish too.
Yes, you've been fishin' all the time.
I'm a-goin' a-fishin' too.
I bet your life your lovin' wife.
Catch more fish than you.
Any fish bite, got good bait.
Here's a little somethin' I would like to relate.
Any fish bite, you've got good bait.
I'm a-goin' a-fishin', yes, I'm goin' a-fishin',
I'm a-goin' a-fishin' too.
Put on your skillet, don't never mind your lead.
Mama gonna cook 'em with the short'nin' bread.
Says you been fishin' all the time.
I'm a-goin a-fishin' too.
I bet your life, your lovin' wife.
Can catch more fish than you.
Any fish bite, if you've got good bait.
Here's a little somethin' I would like to relate.
Any fish bite, you've got good bait.
I'm a-goin' a-fishin', yes, I'm goin' a-fishin',
I'm a-goin' a-fishin' too. FISHING BLUES
The Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Fishin’ Blues” is a simple and cheerful ode to the joys of fishing. The song lays out a step-by-step process for going fishing, from getting a pole and hook to looking for the right spot by the river. The lyrics also touch on the competitive spirit that can arise between fishermen, with the singer challenging his companion to a contest to see who can catch more fish. The message of the song is one of nostalgia for a simpler way of life, and for the simple pleasures of spending time outdoors and enjoying the company of friends.
The song is notable for its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, which make it an instant sing-along classic. But beyond its musical appeal, “Fishin’ Blues” is also an interesting reflection on the cultural and social significance of fishing in American life. In many ways, the song embodies the romanticized vision of fishing that has long been a part of American folklore, with its emphasis on the camaraderie of fishing trips, the thrill of the catch, and the satisfaction of cooking and eating fresh fish. At the same time, the song also speaks to the competitive and masculine aspects of fishing, with the singer implicitly challenging his friend to prove his fishing skills and his manliness.
Line by Line Meaning
Went up on the hill about twelve o'clock.
At noon, I climbed up the hill.
Reached right back and got me a pole.
I grabbed a fishing rod from behind me.
Went to the hardware and got me a hook.
I went to the hardware store and picked up a hook.
Attached that line right on that hook.
I tied the fishing line to the hook.
Says you've been a-fishin' all the time.
You've been fishing for a while now.
I'm a-goin' fishin' too.
I want to go fishing as well.
I bet your life, your lovin'wife.
I'd wager your life and your loving spouse's life.
Can catch more fish than you.
That they can catch more fish than you.
Any fish bite if you've got good bait.
Any fish will bite if you have quality bait.
Here's a little somethin' I would like to relate.
I have a small story to share.
Looked down the river about one o'clock.
Around one o'clock, I looked down the river.
Spied this catfish swimmin' around.
I noticed a catfish swimming nearby.
I've got so hungry, didn't know what to do.
I became so hungry that I didn't know what to do.
I'm gonna get me a catfish too.
I plan on catching a catfish as well.
Put on your skillet, don't never mind your lead.
Get out your frying pan and don't worry about anything else.
Mama gonna cook 'em with the short'nin' bread.
Mama is going to cook them with the shortening bread.
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: JOHN SEBASTIAN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind