Hey, What Does It Mean if I Dream About Fish?

Photo credit: Getty/Margie Rischiotto
Photo credit: Getty/Margie Rischiotto


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We all dream, and the images in our dreams can be intriguing, unsettling, and symbolic. Dream interpretation has been practiced throughout history, all the way back to the ancient Babylonians and Egyptians. Some symbols that appear in dreams—like tornados and alligators and snakes—have common meanings, based on common associations with those animals/events/etc.

When we dream about fish, it can represent a myriad of things that allude to creation, pregnancy, and spiritual fulfillment. The best way to understand how your dreams affect you is to keep a dream journal. Write down everything you remember about each dream, reflect on the potential meaning, and then see if that meaning is reflected in your life.

What does it mean if I dream about fish?

There are several potential meanings to dreams about fish, including receiving power, prosperity, personal growth, and fertility. Personally, I dream about fish when I’m in the middle of beginning a big project. Before I wrote my book, I dreamed about fish—which could mean “fertility” in the sense that I was creating something major. But dreams about fish could also literally be about pregnancy—especially if you’re trying to conceive. Consider your own personal story and situation when you’re trying to understand what your subconscious is saying through your dreams.

What does it mean if I dream about fish while I’m pregnant or trying to conceive?

Dreaming about fish is a wonderful omen. Fish are a symbol of pregnancy because of the huge amount of eggs that fish produce. Fish are always producing offspring on a large scale, so it’s no wonder people see fish as a symbol of pregnancy—plus, a fetus basically “swims” around in your womb, kinda like a fish! Whether you see fish dreams as a symbol of literal pregnancy or as a symbol of a creative project, these dreams are a sign that you’ll be happy with the outcome.

What does it mean if I dream about fish jumping out of water?

In dreams, water usually symbolizes life because it is a vital force that all living beings need. Whenever we see erratic events happen in water in dreams, it usually means that unexpected events are happening in our lives. A dream about fish jumping out of water is a combination of water, fish, and excitement, likely meaning that something unexpected is coming into our lives—maybe even something life-altering that will change our lives for the better. Keep in mind that this dream doesn’t have a negative vibe—fish jumping out of water usually relates to something happy and enjoyable but unexpected.

What does it mean if I dream of fish in a tank?

A fish tank is constraining, so a dream like this could mean that you feel like there is something or someone in your life who’s holding you back. It’s important to take stock of the people you spend time with. Is there someone who may not have the best intentions at heart? Alternately, this dream could mean that you’re having issues working on your creative goals—you feel like you’re in constant contradiction of what you want to bring for life. Getting clear on the situation takes time and energy. Plan out your goals carefully before you take any major steps.

What does it mean if I dream about fish in dirty versus clean water?

If you dream about fish in clean water, it could mean that clarity that is coming into your life. Alternately, it could mean that you’re exploring your options and gathering information in order to make an assessment in the upcoming weeks. Fish are sometimes interpreted as spiritual animals, so this dream can also be a message to trust your intuition. Conversely, if you dream of fish swimming in dirty water, it could mean that your intuition is clogged and you feel “blocked.” You may be repressing emotions or preventing yourself from understanding matters clearly.

What does it mean if I dream about fish dying?

Simply put: You need a new outlook on life. Unfortunately, you’re feeling like you can’t reach your hopes and goals. This dream is like your subconscious telling you that you’re in need of a pep talk. Maybe you are holding on to the past and need to be more in the present? Basically, it’s time to work through some sh*t. The less weight you have on your shoulders, the better you’ll feel.

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