As we were a-fishing off Happisburgh light Shooting and hauling and trawling all night, In the windy old weather, stormy old weather When the wind blows we all pull together
When up jumped a herring, the queen(king) of the sea Says “Now, old skipper, you cannot catch me,” We sighted a Thresher-a-slashin’ his tail, “Time now Old Skipper to hoist up your sail.” And up jumps a Slipsole as strong as a horse, Says now, “Old Skipper you’re miles off course.” Then along comes plaice-who’s got spots on his side, Says “Not much longer-these seas you can ride.” Then up rears a conger-as long as a mile, “Winds coming east’ly”-he says with a smile. I think what these fishes are sayin’ is right, We’ll haul up our gear now an’ steer for the light