Why We Don’t Allow Bananas on the Boat!
If you’ve ever spent time around seasoned anglers, you may have heard a strange superstition: never bring a banana on a fishing boat. While it may sound like a silly myth, this belief is taken seriously by many fishermen, especially those who make their living on the water. But where did this superstition come from, and is there any truth to it?
The Origins of the Banana Superstition
The belief that bananas bring bad luck on a fishing boat dates back centuries. There are a few theories on how this superstition started:
- Slippery Decks – One practical explanation is that banana peels left on the deck of wooden ships made the surface slippery, creating dangerous conditions for sailors. This could have led to accidents, fueling the belief that bananas were bad luck.
- Poisonous Cargo – During the 1700s, ships carrying bananas often had issues with rapid spoilage, which released gases that could ferment and cause other food supplies to rot. Additionally, spiders, snakes, and other pests would sometimes hitch a ride in banana shipments, creating hazardous conditions for sailors.
- Unsuccessful Fishing Trips – Some claim that in the days of wooden sailing ships, boats carrying bananas had trouble catching fish. Since bananas ripen quickly, ships transporting them had to move fast, meaning they couldn’t slow down to fish along the way. This led to the association between bananas and bad fishing luck.
- Vanishing Ships – Some old sea tales suggest that ships carrying bananas were more likely to disappear at sea. While there’s no evidence to support this claim, such legends have contributed to the superstition over time.
Do Fishermen Still Believe This Today?
Yes! Many fishermen today refuse to allow bananas on their boats. Charter captains, in particular, are known to enforce strict “no banana” policies. Some even extend the superstition to banana-flavored snacks, banana boat sunscreen, or even banana-patterned clothing!
While there’s no scientific proof that bananas actually bring bad luck, superstitions persist because fishing often involves a mix of skill, patience, and luck. Many anglers prefer to eliminate any possible bad omens—just in case.
Should You Bring Bananas on a Fishing Boat?
If you’re heading out on a fishing trip, it’s best to play it safe and leave the bananas at home. Whether you believe in the superstition or not, respecting the traditions of experienced fishermen is always a good idea. Plus, it never hurts to have a little extra luck when you’re out on the water!
So, next time you’re packing snacks for a fishing trip, maybe reach for an apple or granola bar instead—you never know, it just might help you reel in the big one!