Many Fisk and Fiske families can trace their lineage to around 1200 to Eastern England, and there are several theories for the ancient origin of the names. One theory suggests that in all probability the Fisk and Fiske names originated in Scandinavia. The name Fisk means fish in Norwegian, Swedish, and Frisian. (In the 5th century the tribe of the Frisians inhabited the whole North Sea coast from the Rhine to the Elbe, and probably exercised some influence on the languages of the other tribes in that area.) Fiske is a Danish alternative spelling for fish. The Vikings invaded eastern England around 800, and many settled there. Many present-day Fisk and Fiske families can trace their roots to the eastern counties of Suffolk and Norfolk in England.
Another theory suggests the original name was Fisc, which is an older form of Fish. Others suggest the name Fisc had to do with tax collection, so they may have been tax collectors.
Yet another theory maintains the names Fisk or Fiske were named after a profession, namely a fisherman, or the name could have come from a place connected with fishing.