41 - The Final Trawl

Words: Archie Fisher
Tune: Archie Fisher

Now it’s three long years since we made her pay
Sing haul away, my laddie-o
And the owners say that she’s had her day
And sing haul away, my laddie-o

So heave away for the final trawl
Sing haul away, my laddie-o
It’s an easy pull, for the catch is small
And sing haul away, my laddie-o

Then stow your gear, lads, and batten down
And I’ll take the wheel, lads, and I’ll turn her ’round

And we’ll join the Venture and the Morning Star
Riding high and empty towards the bar

For I’d rather beach her on the skerry rock
Than to see her torched in the breaker’s dock

And when I die, you can stow me down
In her rusty hold, where the breakers pound

Then I’d make the haven of Fiddlers Green
Where the grub is good, and the bunks are clean

For I’ve fished a lifetime, boy and man
And the final trawl scarcely makes a cran