Early 17th century; earliest use found in Samuel Purchas (bap. 1577, d. 1626), geographical editor and compiler and Church of England clergyman. From pearl + fishing.
Definition of pearl fishing in US English:
pearl fishing
nounˈpəːl ˌfɪʃɪŋ
The occupation or industry of fishing for pearls.
Origin
Early 17th century; earliest use found in Samuel Purchas (bap. 1577, d. 1626), geographical editor and compiler and Church of England clergyman. From pearl + fishing.