Everyone wants to have a good fishing experience. Fishing etiquette simply revolves around common sense, courtesy and consideration of others sharing the stream. Consider these points when on the water:
Normally, a section of water belongs to the first angler fishing it
If you
come near him or her, ask permission before coming into the area, giving the
angler enough space so both of you can fish without crowding each other. If you
are moving, leave the water and walk behind the angler. Act in a conscientious
way,
The exception would be where water privileges are limited through
ownership, crown water reserves, etc.
Part of fishing etiquette is knowing the
laws and rules, and following them.
A fly-fisher working in an upstream direction has the right of way over
someone coming downstream
Fishing in an upstream position forces you to
move slowly, cover less area, and approach fish from behind. Someone moving
in a downstream direction is moving quickly, with the potential of disturbing
more water and silt an debris, if not careful.
Access is a privilege, not a right
Many streams flow through private
property. If you are unsure about access, ask the landowner politely. Respect is the key.
Proper etiquette requires knowing the rules when several anglers are using the same stretch of river.
Other Rules of Etiquette that are Important
Leave no litter at streamside. Get into the habit of picking up not only your own
garbage, but litter that you may see on the way.
Practicing Live Release is part of good etiquette. It is good practice to release all
fish into the wild, any time one is angled. The angling experience for the 21st Century
angler means thinking of the environment first.
Rotate. If there are a number of anglers lined up on the bank of a river, it is a good
idea to rotate positions, to give everyone a chance to try out different spots along the
riverbank. Make sure you ask other anglers before rotating.
Give other anglers enough room to land a fish.
If necessary, take your line out of the water to give them some space.
Be very quiet on the water. Radios, barking dogs, loud voices should be avoided while fishing. It will disturb the fish and other anglers.
Try not to disturb natural areas while you are fishing.
The common denominator while on or around the water is RESPECT
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