Here's some ideas that might make fishing more enjoyable for everyone.
*Always give an angler who's already in the water the right of way. That rule goes whether you’re floating or walking the bank. Try to move on up-river, if possible. Never walk right in front of another angler. Ask if you can enter the pool or run he is fishing, and if allowed, always enter up-river of the other angler, giving that angler plenty of space.
*Take your line out of the water for an angler that has a fish on to give that person plenty of space to land the fish if space is tight. This rule holds especially true if you’re fishing down river of the other angler. Never move into another angler’s space while they are on the bank landing or releasing a fish.
*Be somewhat quiet on the water. You'd be amazed how well sound travels over water. So leave your radio at home and leave your dog at home too.
*It's ok to help out another angler. Whether it’s grabbing something of theirs that is floating down the river or lending them some tippet material or whatever....a friendly attitude makes the day nicer for everybody, I think.
*If you get to your regular lake or river and someone else is fishing the spot you like to fish usually, don't wade in front of that person and crowd them out. That's rude. If you're determined to fish that spot, then wait it out by sitting there... up to you.
*If some rude person comes into the pool you're working; tell him - politely - the error of his ways. If that doesn't work and he decides their fishing is more important than yours, don't stoop to their level. Hard as it seems, just move on. You aren't going to catch anything anyways with another person standing right next to you in the same area and the stress of having someone like this around you just isn't worth it. You're out there to relax and to enjoy yourself, right?
If you do end up having no choice but to share a small area with another angler, just give a little space when they are fighting and landing a fish.
*Don't laugh at casting flaws, and mistakes unless they're your own!
*Don't make rude comments about the the other angler's use of a fly. If he wants to use that fly, let him, unless he asks, stay out of it.
*If you're fishing a stream, don't use it as a path. It will need less rest for the next angler that comes along.
*It's ok to talk to another angler. It's proper.
*It's ok not to talk to another angler. It's still proper.
*Don't litter. And if you smoke, take your matches and your butts with you. Forest fires get started because of people throwing their cigarettes butts into the dry grasses, so pay attention!
*If you are going to offer advice, make sure that you were asked first and if you are asking, make sure you listen.
*Keep cellphones turned off and beepers. They don't belong on the water!
