I've been a wild paddler for many a year        D A7 D G
And I spent all my money on rivers and beer     D A7 D
And now I'm returning with gold in great store  D A7 D G
And I never will play the wild paddler no more  D A7 D

And it's no, nay, never                         A A7
No, nay, never, no more                         D G
Will I play the wild paddler                    D G
No, never, no more                              A7 D

I went to a storehouse I used to frequent
And I told the boat salesman my money was spent
I asked him for credit, he answered me "Nay
Such a custom of yours I could have any day"

And it's no, nay, never…

I took from my pocket ten sovereigns bright
And the boat salesman's eyes opened wide with delight
He said "I have drysuits and boats of the best
And the word that I spoke sure were only in jest"

And it's no, nay, never…

I'll go home to my sweetheart, confess what I've done
And I'll ask her to pardon this prodigal one
And if she caress me as oft times before
Sure I never will play the wild paddler no more

And it's no, nay, never…