# fish or cut bait

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fish-or-cut-bait
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a decision, especially after a period of delay; to either take action now or forgo the opportunity.

## Examples

- You need to fish or cut bait on this project today.
- The manager told the team they had to fish or cut bait regarding the new contract proposal by the end of the week.
- After months of indecision, the board of directors finally demanded that the CEO fish or cut bait concerning the proposed merger.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.