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Top Five Fishing Idioms

Idioms are created through a gradual process in which metaphors go from being thought provoking, to unanimously understood phrases in common speech. Luckily, over the years, dozens of idioms revolving around fish have been created and are the perfect way to entertain your unsuspecting fishing buddies. Here are five of the best and most common fish idioms to keep on hand for your next fishing trip.

Fishing Idioms

Fish out of water

Anyone who has seen a fish hit the deck knows what this looks like. When you say someone is a fish out of water you’re describing them as being out of place and flailing around in an attempt to regain their bearings. If you have a buddy who drinks a few to many there’s a good chance they will look like a fish out of water which brings us to the next idiom.

Drink like a Fish

Indulging in alcohol consumption while at sea is a tradition as old as time and may be the most appropriate idiom for a fishing trip. Someone who drinks like a fish drinks a lot and often, or in other words frequently drinks to much. This phrase will likely come in handy on a trip with a bunch of old friends while inevitably retelling old stories and waiting on a bite.

Plenty of fish in the sea

This could be the most commonly used fish idiom which usually is deployed after a break up or bout of bad luck. By telling your friend there are plenty of fish in the sea, you’re saying there’s an abundance of other options or opportunities that will eventually come around. If bad news shows up or someone is feeling down during your offer them this sage perspective.

Bigger fish to fry

Simple but satiating, this idiom is perfect for foodies who can’t be bothered. Bigger fish to fry describes having other things of greater importance to tend to in terms of fish fillets. Larger fish are generally more valuable so if you were to fry fish in order of importance it would makes sense to make sure the bigger fish were cooked first.

Big fish in a small pond

Describing someone as a big fish is an idiom on its own which means someone is dominant and/or important. This idiom when put in context of a small pond makes things more backhanded and complex. A big fish in a small pond means someone who’s a big deal in a small and unimportant place meaning they aren’t really a big deal anywhere else. This idiom cuts deep but if someone starts bragging it might be just what you need to humble them.

Fishing Idioms

Taking a fishing trip with friends and family is one of the best ways to spend a day. With these idioms fresh in your mind, it’s unlikely that you will make it through a trip with those closest to you without letting one fly. If you want to get out on the water for some long over due quality time, you can browse all of our fishing charters here.