With ever increasing numbers of anglers on our streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans it’s important that we all know and practice a little etiquette at times. Luckily fly fishers as a whole are generally very courteous but it’s sometimes good to just remind yourself of a few rules to go by on the water.

Remember to leave space for the next guy. Nothing is more frustrating than going around a corner on a stream to find that you’ve been following someone who jumped in just above you. The space you give can depend on several factors but make sure it is appropriate for the water you’re fishing. On a large popular river with many fish that may mean fifty or a hundred yards. On a small rarely fished creek it may mean a half mile, mile, or more. Always remember to give the angler moving upstream their space.

Remember to respect private property. In some states or regions the public is allowed access to streams running through private property. This does not mean that it is ok to damage fences or other property, to disrupt livestock, or to take care of your personal business on their land. Do take care to not hurt the reputation of fly fishers, it only takes one bad apple.

Take care of your streams, rivers, and other waters. There is nothing more frustrating to me than showing up in one of the most beautiful settings in the world and seeing strike indicators, line, and other trash littering the stream. Remember, if it comes with you to the water, take it with you when you go. Everyone loves a pristine environment in which to wet a line. Let’s make sure we keep places pristine for the fish and for our future generations of fly fishers.

Just be generally courteous. I have met and learned from so many great people on stream. Be sure to offer a little tip, a fly, or just a hello to your fellow fly fishers. It will come back to you somehow, hopefully in tight lines and good times.