Fishing has always played a major role in the world of country music. It’s a favorite pastime of many artists, as well as their fans. As a result, numerous songs have been written in praise of casting a rod, relaxing by the water, and scoring some impressive catches.
While this subject is popular enough to be its own sub-genre, there are a few standout tunes that anyone can enjoy. Below is our list of the top seven.
1. I’m Gonna Miss Her – Brad Paisley
This is a classic comedy song, telling the story of a man who’s been given an ultimatum by his girlfriend: he can either stop fishing or the relationship will be over.
This leads the narrator to sing:
“Well, I’m gonna miss her
When I get home
But right now
I’m on this lakeshore
And I’m sittin’ in the sun”
It’s a fun song with plenty of jokes, and it even reached No. 1 on country charts after its release.
2. Bad Day of Fishin’ – Billy Currington
This is an enjoyable song that takes a unique look at something that can frustrate most fisherman, a bad day of fishing.
The song explores all the aspects of what make fishing fun, and the lyrics contain this great reminder:
“You know, a bad day of fishin’ beats a good day of anything else”
If you’re looking for a tune that can cheer you up after a less than stellar day on the water, then this is the perfect choice.
3. Cold Beer and a Fishin Pole – Trent Willmon
Here’s a celebration to fishing and relaxing with friends. This is a simple song that relishes in the joys of casting a line, cracking a cold one, and having a good time with the people closest to you. The chorus sums this up nicely:
“Cold beer and a fishin’ pole
A little lake off a back road
All the friends my truck can hold
Some charcoal”
As far as celebrations of friends, fishing, and beer go, this is one of the best songs of its kind.
4. The Five Pound Bass – Robert Earl Keen
If you want to feel inspired and confident, then give this track a listen. “The Five Pound Bass” is an optimistic tune about trying to get a big catch.
The song’s message and story make it a worthy addition to any fishing playlist.
5. Just Fishin’ – Trace Adkins
This song actually won a Grammy. “Just Fishin’” is the tale of a father and his daughter spending time together as they catch fish and bond as a family.
This is an enjoyable tune, and one that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings of any parent who’s taken their child out fishing.
6. Fish – Craig Campbell
The song “Fish” is built around a very simple joke. The lyrics build a story that seems like it’s going in one direction, before the chorus cuts in and changes the entire context. Here’s an example:
“The first time we did it I was scared to death
She snuck out in that cotton dress
Jumped on in and we drove to the lake
Put her hand on my knee and said I can’t wait I had everything we needed in the bed of my truck
Turns out my baby loves to…
Fish, she wants to do it all the time”
This is a humorous song about romance and a couple that loves to go fishing.
7. Fishin In The Dark – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
This is probably one of the most iconic fishing songs of all time. Fishin In The Dark is a catchy tune and tells a simple romantic story set by a lake. The song was a major hit when it was released in 1987, and is still remembered for its infectious chorus:
“You and me, going fishing in the dark
Lying on our backs and counting the stars
Where the cool grass grows”
If you’re looking for a fun track with a memorable hook, give “Fishin In The Dark” a listen.
