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Gone fishing

Posted by Smokey Stover on April 30, 2005

In Reply to: Gone fishing posted by James Briggs on April 30, 2005

: : Meaning of the phrase "gone fishing" or its origin. Does it just mean gone out for a while or has it another meaning as well?

: It was a song sung by Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby in the 40s and 50s. It signified a way of getting away from the hundrum, routine of life and doing something interesting! Whether the title was original, or used a recognised phrase, I know not. Others may.

In American movies and cheap novels of the 1930s and 40s, the phrase, "Tell 'im I've gone fishing" is used as a means of avoiding an unwanted meeting. I'm not certain of the time frame. I think it may still be used that way occasionally. SS

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