proverb · Words worth keeping
He that would catch fish must not mind getting wet.
He that would catch fish must not mind getting wet.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Obtaining a desired result may involve some inconvenience. Be willing to do the necessary work, while checking that the cost is proportionate and the method is reasonable.
Example
A volunteer who wants an accessible reading guide sets aside time to check the index and captions, accepting the detailed work while asking others to share the review.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Fishing supplies the desired catch, and getting wet supplies an unwelcome part of the undertaking. The saying links the two to challenge the wish for a result without any practical inconvenience. Figuratively, arranging an event or learning a skill may require tasks that are less enjoyable than the finished achievement. The useful question is whether the cost is actually necessary and worth accepting, not whether discomfort proves merit. Some burdens can be shared or avoided with a different approach. A person can take effort seriously without agreeing to needless danger, unfair conditions or every difficulty attached to someone else’s proposed method.
When to use it
Use it when a worthwhile goal is being delayed solely to avoid its reasonable practical work.
Keep in mind
Inconvenience is not the same as unsafe risk or exploitation; necessary tasks may be shared or improved.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English