Fishing is one of the most relaxing pastimes there is. It’s a chance to get out and enjoy being at one with nature. However, as serene as it is to sit and wait for a bite, there are times it can get a bit tedious. Those times are typically when the fish aren’t playing ball. For those times, a tune or two can help make the experience more enjoyable.

Let’s provide some context before we get into that synergy between music and fishing. Regardless of whether you see it as a sport or a hobby, fishing is popular. A report by the Outdoor Foundation, in conjunction with the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, found that 54 million Americans fished in 2021. Moreover, 18% of the US population fish on a regular basis. By those metrics alone, it’s a popular pastime or, if you prefer, a sport.

A Sport that Cross Boundaries

Go beyond the numbers and you’ll see that fishing has people hooked in other areas of life. Even a cursory look through the latest shows on Netflix reveals fishing-themed offerings such as Battlefish. From streaming platforms you can find your way to online gaming sites. Slot developers for leading casino brands take things that are popular with the masses and use them for their latest projects. That’s why Fishing Frenzy, with its five reels, 10 paylines, and bonus round (where you have to hook prizes), is a hit.

The developers at Blueprint Gaming saw the popularity of fishing and decided to base a slot game on it. That slot has since become a hit with online casino customers. Thus, what you have here is a self-perpetuating cycle. Fishing is popular so it gets used for a game and the game helps to make fishing popular. This idea also applies to music, which brings us onto our main topic. Various artists have focused on fishing over the years and, over time, their songs have contributed to the sport’s popularity.

We won’t list all the hits about fishing, but we’ll give you a few to listen to:

I’m Gonna Miss Her by Brad Paisley

 

Just Fishin’ by Trace Adkins

 

Gone Fishing by Chris Rea

 

Five Fantastic Songs for Fishing

Those are all fine tunes to fish to, but we like to think outside of the box when it comes to musical tips. Therefore, if you’re sitting on the bank waiting for a bite, we think these songs can help you capture the essence of the moment. Specifically, the following songs say something about the thrill of the chase, the connection with nature, and the serenity associated with fishing:

  • Pure Shores by All Saints (great for a bit of tranquility)
  • Don’t Worry Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin (a reminder to enjoy the experience if you’re not catching)
  • (Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding (a classic)
  • Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple (for when you need to keep the energy up)
  • Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey (a mantra to remember if you end the day without a catch)

Those are five of our favorite fishing songs, but there are many more you could listen to. In fact, if you’re planning to spend a day by the water, you’ll need a stacked playlist to fill the gaps in between bites. Get that right and your next fishing trip will be even better.