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.

What the words are saying

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.

Everyday 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.

When to use it

Use it when a worthwhile goal is being delayed solely to avoid its reasonable practical work.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.