24 Fishing Songs That Will Make You Want to Cast a Line

Fishing is a favorite pastime for many people all around the world, and there’s no shortage of songs that celebrate the thrill of casting a line and waiting for a bite. Fishing songs come in all genres, from country to rock to folk, and they have been a staple of music for generations.

These songs capture the beauty and serenity of spending time on the water, waiting patiently for a fish to take the bait. The best fishing songs have a way of transporting the listener to the water’s edge, even if they’ve never picked up a rod before. They capture the excitement of catching a big fish, the peacefulness of being alone with nature, and the camaraderie of fishing with friends.

Many of these songs also touch on the simple joys of life, and remind us that sometimes the most rewarding moments are the ones spent quietly, waiting for the next catch. Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-written song, these fishing songs are sure to inspire you to cast a line. They’re a testament to the universal appeal of fishing and a celebration of the joys of spending time in nature. So grab your fishing gear, put on your favorite tunes, and hit the water – you never know what you might catch!

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1. A Country Boy Can Survive – Hank Williams Jr.

“A Country Boy Can Survive” is a classic country song written and performed by Hank Williams Jr. The song was released in 1982 and quickly became one of Williams’ signature hits. It tells the story of a rural, self-sufficient man who can handle whatever life throws his way. The lyrics highlight the strength and resilience of those who live off the land and embody the values of hard work, determination, and self-reliance.

The song’s opening lines, “The preacher man says it’s the end of time / And the Mississippi River she’s a-goin’ dry,” set the tone for the rest of the track. Williams sings about the challenges faced by those living in the country, including drought, economic hardship, and the threat of societal collapse. But he also celebrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of country folk, who can fix anything with a little bit of wire and a lot of heart.

2. Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day – Luke Bryan

“Huntin’, Fishin’, and Lovin’ Every Day” is a popular country song written and performed by Luke Bryan. The song was released in 2016 as the fourth single from Bryan’s fifth studio album, “Kill the Lights”. It quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of Bryan’s live shows, thanks in part to its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics.

The song celebrates the simple pleasures of life in the country, including hunting, fishing, and spending time with loved ones. It opens with Bryan singing about waking up early to go hunting, before transitioning to a verse about fishing on a peaceful river. Throughout the song, he emphasizes the importance of family and community, singing about spending time with his wife and children and bonding with his buddies over shared hobbies.

3. Bait a Hook – Justin Moore

“Bait a Hook” is a country song written by Justin Moore, Rhett Akins, and Jeremy Stover, and performed by Justin Moore. The song was released in 2011 as the second single from Moore’s second studio album, “Outlaws Like Me”. The song tells the story of a man who is tired of his ex-girlfriend trying to win him back and decides to move on by going fishing with a new love interest.

The song opens with a guitar riff and Moore singing about how his ex-girlfriend keeps calling him, but he’s not interested in getting back together. He then describes how he’s going fishing with a new girl and is excited to move on. The chorus repeats the phrase “I’m gonna bait a hook, I’m gonna string her along, I’m gonna give her a little bit of rope to hang on,” conveying his determination to start fresh and leave his past behind.

4. Up Down – Morgan Wallen

“Up Down” is a country rap song performed by Morgan Wallen featuring Florida Georgia Line. The song was released in 2017 as the lead single from Wallen’s debut studio album, “If I Know Me”. The song is known for its catchy chorus and lively beat, which combines elements of country, rap, and pop music.

The song opens with a rhythmic guitar riff and Wallen rapping about partying on a boat with his friends. The chorus, sung by Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley, repeats the phrase “We goin’ up, up, up, down, down, down,” conveying the energy and excitement of the party scene. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree night spent with friends, enjoying life to the fullest.

5. Buy Me a Boat – Chris Janson

“Buy Me a Boat” is a country song performed by Chris Janson. The song was released in 2015 as the lead single from Janson’s debut studio album of the same name. The song quickly became a hit, thanks to its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics.

The song tells the story of a man who dreams of a better life, where he can escape the daily grind and enjoy the finer things in life. The chorus repeats the phrase “Buy me a boat, I need a new truck, to pull it,” as the narrator lists off his desires for a better life. Throughout the song, he emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance, singing about the long hours he puts in to make his dreams a reality.

6. Just Fishin’ – Trace Adkins

“Just Fishin'” is a heartwarming country song performed by Trace Adkins. The song was released in 2011 as the lead single from Adkins’ album “Proud to Be Here”. The song tells the story of a father and daughter bonding over a simple activity – fishing.

The song opens with Adkins singing about how he’s taking his daughter fishing, emphasizing the joy of spending time together and making memories. The chorus repeats the phrase “Just fishin’, it ain’t about the fish, it’s about the time” to highlight the importance of quality time spent together.

7. Shut Up and Fish – Maddie & Tae

“Shut Up and Fish” is a country song by Maddie & Tae, an American female country music duo. The song was released in 2015 and was written by Maddie Marlow, Tae Dye, and Aaron Scherz. It tells the story of a woman who goes on a fishing trip with a guy she likes, but he keeps talking about everything but fishing, which frustrates her. She tells him to “shut up and fish” so they can enjoy the moment and the beautiful scenery around them.

The song is a lighthearted take on a relatable situation that many people have experienced – when you want to focus on an activity or experience, but someone keeps distracting you with irrelevant conversation. The upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a fun song to listen to, while the lyrics convey a message of living in the moment and enjoying the simple things in life.

8. Boondocks – Little Big Town

“Boondocks” is a country song by Little Big Town, a vocal quartet composed of Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Jimi Westbrook, and Phillip Sweet. The song was released in 2005 and was written by the band members with Wayne Kirkpatrick.

The song celebrates the rural lifestyle and the simple pleasures of living in the country. It describes the joys of growing up in a small town, where people know each other and are connected to their roots. The lyrics reference various aspects of country life, such as fishing in the creek, riding bikes down dirt roads, and picking wildflowers. The chorus repeats the refrain, “I feel no shame, I’m proud of where I came from. I was born and raised in the boondocks.”

9. Cletus Take the Reel – Tim Hawkins

“Cletus Take the Reel” is a comedy song by Tim Hawkins, an American Christian comedian and musician. The song was released in 2011 and is a humorous take on a serious issue – distracted driving.

The song tells the story of a man named Cletus who takes his wife on a romantic drive, but gets distracted by his cell phone, fast food, and other distractions. He ends up causing a car crash and realizes the error of his ways. The chorus repeats the refrain, “Cletus take the reel, don’t let your life be a bumper sticker cliché.”

The melody is catchy and upbeat, with a strong guitar riff that adds to the comedic feel of the song. Hawkins’ delivery is deadpan and sarcastic, adding to the humor of the lyrics. The song also features several sound effects, such as screeching brakes and crashing cars, which add to the comedic effect.

10. Fish – Craig Campbell

“Fish” is a country song by Craig Campbell, an American country singer and songwriter. The song was released in 2011 and was written by Arlos Smith, Ashe Underwood, and Chris Wallin.

The song tells the story of a man who loves fishing and uses it as a way to escape the stresses of everyday life. He describes the peacefulness of being on the water, the thrill of catching a fish, and the satisfaction of sharing his catch with his friends and family. The chorus repeats the refrain, “I’m gonna sit right here, stay away from there. I’m gonna make myself comfy and I’m gonna catch me a fish.”

The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong guitar riff that captures the excitement of fishing. Campbell’s vocals are smooth and soulful, conveying the passion and joy of the lyrics. The song also features a playful harmonica riff, which adds to the folksy feel of the track.

11. Catch a Fish – Outlaw

“Catch a Fish” is a country song by Outlaw, an American country music duo consisting of brothers Casey and Bryan Eichler. The song was released in 2020 and was written by the Eichler brothers.

The song is an upbeat and catchy celebration of fishing and the great outdoors. It describes the joys of spending time on the water, the thrill of reeling in a big catch, and the satisfaction of sharing a fish fry with family and friends. The chorus repeats the refrain, “If you wanna catch a fish, you gotta bait that hook. Cast a line, reel it in, take a picture and cook.”

The melody is a mix of country and rock, with a driving beat and electric guitar riffs that add to the energy of the song. The Eichler brothers’ vocal harmonies are a highlight, adding depth and richness to the track. The song also features a catchy whistling riff that will get stuck in your head.

12. Dirt Road – Kip Moore

“Dirt Road” is a country song by Kip Moore that was released in 2012. It is a nostalgic track that celebrates the simplicity and beauty of life in rural America. The song’s title refers to the dirt roads that wind through the countryside and symbolizes the connection to nature and the slower pace of life that comes with living away from the city.

The song’s opening verse sets the scene, describing a familiar image of a dusty pickup truck driving down a dirt road with the windows rolled down and the radio playing. As the song progresses, Moore sings about the joys of small-town living, from fishing in the creek to sitting on the front porch with friends and family. He also touches on the struggles that come with rural life, like droughts and crop failures, but emphasizes the resilience and strength of the people who live there.

13. Fishin’ – Chris Lane

“Fishin'” is a country song by Chris Lane that was released in 2020. It is an upbeat track that celebrates the joys of fishing, a beloved pastime for many people, particularly those who grew up in rural areas. The song’s lyrics describe the simple pleasures of fishing, from spending time with friends and family to enjoying the tranquility of being out on the water.

The song’s opening verse sets the scene, describing a perfect day for fishing: blue skies, sunshine, and a cool breeze blowing. Lane sings about packing up the truck and heading out to the lake, excited to spend the day reeling in some fish. As the song progresses, he describes the feeling of anticipation that comes with waiting for a bite and the rush of adrenaline when you finally catch something.

14. Fish and Whistle – John Prine

“Fish and Whistle” is a classic country-folk song written by the legendary American singer-songwriter, John Prine. The song was released in 1978 as a part of his eighth studio album, Bruised Orange.

The song tells the story of a hardworking man who lives a simple life and takes pleasure in the small things, such as fishing and whistling. Prine’s clever lyrics and gentle, folksy melodies capture the essence of this character, as well as the spirit of the rural American experience. The song also features some of Prine’s trademark humor, as he sings about the joys of “living my life like a gypsy” and “catching catfish in the dark.”

In addition to its engaging lyrics, “Fish and Whistle” is also notable for its catchy melody, which features a driving acoustic guitar riff and a lively harmonica solo. The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful sound make it a favorite among fans of Prine’s work, and it remains a staple of his live performances to this day.

15. Fishin’ in the Dark – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

“Fishin’ in the Dark” is a classic country-rock song by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. It was released in 1987 as a part of their album, Hold On. The song was written by Wendy Waldman and Jim Photoglo, and it quickly became one of the band’s most popular hits.

The song’s catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and memorable lyrics make it a beloved classic of the country-rock genre. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a couple who go out fishing late at night and end up falling in love under the stars. The song is a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, and the joy that can be found in the company of a loved one.

“Fishin’ in the Dark” is notable for its catchy chorus, which features the memorable lines “We’ll be fallin’ in love / in the middle of the night / just movin’ slow / stayin’ the whole night through.” The song’s upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation, including a driving guitar riff and a lively drumbeat, add to its infectious energy.

16. Jon Boat – Cody Webb

Cody Webb’s “Jon Boat” is a catchy and upbeat country song that captures the essence of the simple life on the water. The song paints a picture of a peaceful day on a river or lake, with the narrator enjoying the company of friends and family on his trusty Jon boat.

The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery, describing the sound of the water lapping against the boat, the smell of the sun on the narrator’s skin, and the laughter of his companions. The chorus is especially memorable, with its infectious melody and sing-along lyrics that make you want to grab a cooler and head to the nearest body of water.

While “Jon Boat” is undeniably a feel-good song, it also speaks to a deeper sense of nostalgia for a simpler way of life. The song celebrates the joys of being outdoors, disconnected from technology and the stresses of modern life. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

17. More Time Fishin’ – Thomas Rhett

“More Time Fishin'” by Thomas Rhett is a heartwarming country song that celebrates the simple pleasures of life, particularly the joy of spending time with loved ones while fishing. The song’s melody is catchy, with upbeat acoustic guitar and fiddle riffs that perfectly capture the mood of a sunny day on the water.

The song’s lyrics focus on the narrator’s desire to slow down and spend more time fishing with his father, who he admires and respects deeply. The narrator reflects on the lessons he’s learned from his father, both in life and in fishing, and expresses a longing to spend more quality time together.

18. Catch All the Fish – Brad Paisley

“Catch All the Fish” is a playful and upbeat country song by Brad Paisley that is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who loves to fish and is determined to catch every fish in the lake, no matter how elusive they may be.

The song’s melody is catchy, with a lively acoustic guitar riff and playful lyrics that perfectly capture the excitement of fishing. Throughout the song, Paisley’s trademark sense of humor shines through, with witty lyrics and tongue-in-cheek references to the joys and frustrations of fishing.

While the song is undeniably lighthearted, it also contains a deeper message about the importance of pursuing our passions and never giving up on our dreams. The narrator’s determination to catch all the fish in the lake is a metaphor for the pursuit of our goals and the satisfaction that comes from achieving them.

19. Gone Fishing – Chris Rea

“Gone Fishing” by Chris Rea is a smooth and bluesy song that conjures up images of lazy days spent by the water. The song’s melody is mellow and laid-back, with gentle acoustic guitar and harmonica riffs that perfectly capture the mood of a peaceful day on the river or lake.

The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery, describing the narrator’s desire to escape from the stresses of everyday life and spend some time fishing with his friends. Throughout the song, Rea emphasizes the importance of taking a break from the pressures of work and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

While “Gone Fishing” is undeniably a feel-good song, it also contains a deeper message about the importance of finding balance in our lives. The narrator’s decision to take a break and go fishing is a reminder that it’s okay to slow down and take time for ourselves, even when we feel like we’re too busy to do so.

20. It’s My Lazy Day – Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson

“It’s My Lazy Day” is a classic country song recorded by Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson. The song is about taking a day off from the stresses of life and enjoying a carefree moment of relaxation. With its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics, “It’s My Lazy Day” has become a beloved tune in the country music genre.

The song begins with Haggard and Nelson’s distinct voices harmonizing over a simple guitar melody, setting the tone for a lighthearted and fun tune. The lyrics describe a day where there’s nothing to do but kick back and relax, with lines such as “I don’t have to comb my hair, I don’t have to shave, ’cause it’s my lazy day.”

Throughout the song, the duo describes the pleasures of doing nothing, such as taking a nap or watching TV, and even sneaking in a little drinking. The playful lyrics and upbeat tempo of the song make it easy to imagine yourself on a lazy day, enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

21. Fishing Alone – Erik Dylan

“Fishing Alone” is a heartfelt country ballad written and performed by Erik Dylan. The song tells the story of a man who has lost his fishing partner, but still finds solace and peace on the water.

The song begins with a simple guitar melody, accompanied by Dylan’s deep, rich voice. He describes the familiar routine of getting his gear ready and heading out to the water, but notes the emptiness he feels without his friend by his side. The chorus emphasizes this feeling of loss, with Dylan singing, “I’m fishing alone, but it ain’t the same without you here.”

As the song progresses, Dylan reflects on the memories he shared with his fishing partner, from their first catch to their last trip together. He acknowledges the pain of losing someone close, but also the comfort of being able to carry on with their shared passion, and finding a sense of connection with them through the activity they both loved.

22. Livin’ Part of Life – Eric Church

“Livin’ Part of Life” is an energetic country song performed by Eric Church. The song is an anthem for living in the moment and embracing life to the fullest.

The song begins with a driving guitar riff and Church’s gritty vocals. The lyrics describe the thrill of taking risks and living life on the edge, with lines like “I don’t need a map, I don’t need a plan, I don’t need a reason to be alive, I’m just doin’ what I can, livin’ part of life.”

Throughout the song, Church encourages listeners to seize the day and enjoy the journey. He sings about the freedom of hitting the open road, the thrill of falling in love, and the importance of taking chances. The chorus is a powerful declaration of this attitude, with Church proclaiming, “I’m livin’ part of life, not just killin’ time, takin’ what they’re givin’, not waitin’ in line.”

23. Fish Weren’t Bitin – Craig Morgan

“Fish Weren’t Bitin'” is a humorous and lighthearted country song performed by Craig Morgan. The song is about a day spent fishing with family and friends, where despite their efforts, they can’t seem to catch a single fish.

The song begins with a playful guitar melody and Morgan’s smooth vocals. The lyrics describe the excitement of getting ready for a day of fishing, with lines like “Everybody’s getting’ ready, for the weekend on the lake, I’m going fishing, I got my tackle box, I got my bait.”

As the song progresses, Morgan sings about the frustration of not catching any fish, despite trying every trick in the book. He humorously describes the excuses they make for not catching anything, from the weather to the fish just not being hungry. The chorus is a catchy refrain, with Morgan singing, “The fish weren’t bitin’, we didn’t catch a thing, we sat there on that boat, all day and barely wet a line.”

24. Bad Day of Fishin’ – Billy Currington

“Bad Day of Fishin'” is a laid-back country song performed by Billy Currington. The song is about a day of fishing that doesn’t quite go as planned, but the main character still manages to find joy and peace on the water.

The song begins with a mellow guitar melody and Currington’s smooth vocals. The lyrics describe the anticipation and excitement of getting out on the water, with lines like “Sun’s up, it’s a little after 12, make breakfast for myself, leave the work for someone else.”

As the song progresses, Currington sings about the obstacles and mishaps that occur during the day, such as getting stuck in the mud or losing a fishing rod. Despite these setbacks, he maintains a positive attitude and finds comfort in the simple pleasures of fishing, like the sound of the water and the solitude it provides. The chorus is a catchy refrain, with Currington singing, “It’s been a bad day of fishin’, but I ain’t complainin’, ’cause I got to spend it outside.”