Fishin' Wit Fred

Da Yoopers' song "Fishin' Wit Fred" is a humorous and light-hearted tale that captures the essence of a fun-filled day spent fishing with friends. The song is set on a pontoon boat packed with 20 Yoopers, a term referring to residents of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and it paints a vivid picture of camaraderie, leisure, and the simple joys of life. The lyrics are filled with colorful characters and amusing situations, from Emil bringing a TV and Routie's beagle Fred joining the trip, to the boat being so overloaded with gear that Mike can hardly steer. This sets the stage for a day of fishing, drinking beer, and telling tall tales, all while escaping the responsibilities of work and home.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the escapism and joy of the fishing trip. The protagonist humorously notes that his wife thinks he's working and his boss thinks he's sick, highlighting the lengths people go to for a bit of relaxation and fun. The imagery of fishing for the mythical Moby Dick adds a layer of exaggeration and fantasy to the story, making it clear that this is a day for letting loose and enjoying life. The camaraderie among the friends is evident as they share laughs, grill venison steaks, and deal with the antics of Mungo, who is on his fifteenth beer, and Fred the beagle.

The song also includes a comical encounter with a group of fishermen from Ohio, who are using a Winnebago as a makeshift boat after their original vessel sank. This absurd scenario adds to the overall light-hearted and whimsical tone of the song. The climax comes when the overloaded pontoon boat starts to sink, and everyone except Fred the beagle ends up in the water. This final twist underscores the unpredictable and carefree nature of the day, leaving listeners with a sense of joy and laughter. Da Yoopers' "Fishin' Wit Fred" is a celebration of friendship, humor, and the simple pleasures of life, all set against the backdrop of a fishing trip.