Earle Hagen & Herbert Spencer (Lyrics by Everett Sloane)
Series Premiere
October 3, 1960 (USA)
Episodes / Seasons
249 Episodes (8 Seasons)
Network
CBS
Show Creators
Sheldon Leonard, Danny Thomas, Aaron Ruben
Genre
Sitcom / Americana
Theme Song Lyrics (The Fishin’ Hole)
Well now take down your fishin’ pole and meet me at The Fishin’ Hole
We may not get a bite all day but don’t you rush away
What a great place to rest your bones and mighty fine for skippin’ stones
You’ll feel fresh as a lemonade a-settin’ in the shade
Whether it’s hot, whether it’s cool, oh what a spot for whistlin’ like a fool
What a fine day to take a stroll and wander by The Fishin’ Hole
I can’t think of a better way to pass the time o’ day
We’ll have no need to call the roll when we get to The Fishin’ Hole
There’ll be you, me, and old dog Trey to doodle time away
If we don’t hook a perch or bass, we’ll cool our toes in dewy grass
Or else pull up a weed to chaw and maybe set and jaw
Hangin’ around takin’ our ease
Watchin’ that hound a-scratchin’ at his fleas
Come on take down your fishin’ pole and meet me at The Fishin’ Hole
I can’t think of a better way to pass the time o’ day
Behind the Tune: Meaning & Story
The theme for The Andy Griffith Show, titled “The Fishin’ Hole,” is perhaps the most famous whistled melody in television history. Composed by Earle Hagen and Herbert Spencer, the tune was intended to capture the slow-paced, idyllic life of Mayberry, North Carolina. While most viewers recognize the iconic whistling—performed by Hagen himself—the song actually features a full set of lyrics written by Everett Sloane.
Aired first on October 3, 1960, the opening sequence featuring Andy and Opie walking toward the water with fishing poles perfectly visualized the “folksy and laid-back” nature of the series. It transported viewers to a simpler time, evoking images of fishing trips and carefree days that helped the show run for an impressive eight seasons and 249 episodes.
The endearing characters and wholesome humor made it a timeless classic. Even today, “The Fishin’ Hole” remains instantly recognizable and evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of this iconic television series and the vision of creators like Sheldon Leonard and Danny Thomas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the person whistling the theme song?
The iconic whistling was performed by the song’s co-composer, Earle Hagen.
Are there lyrics to The Andy Griffith Show theme?
Yes, although they were never used in the show’s opening credits, Everett Sloane wrote lyrics to the melody. Andy Griffith later recorded a vocal version of the song.
What is the official title of the theme song?
While commonly referred to as the “Andy Griffith Theme,” the official title of the composition is “The Fishin’ Hole.”
