The Right of Way

When it comes to fishing etiquette, the right of way is something that you'll need to learn. The rule of thumb is that the angler who is already in the water is given the right of way. The rule also applies if you're walking along the bank or floating. If you need to move locations try to move up-river whenever possible. You never want to intrude on another fly fisher without asking first. If you do get permission to enter the same waters make sure that you do so up-river and allow the other angler lots of space.

Taking out your Line

Common courtesy dictates that you take your line out of the water for any angler who has a fish on the line. This is so that they have plenty of space in order to land their fish. This rule is very important if you're fishing down-river from the other angler. Make sure that you never step into the space of an angler who is releasing or landing a fish on the bank.

Silence

Whenever you're fly fishing you'll need to be as quiet as you can...and this means leaving your dog and the radio at home. There are two reasons why you want to be as quiet as possible: (1) you don't want to spook the fish, and (2) you don't want to disturb other fly fishers. Many people enjoy fly fishing for the peace and solitude that it affords them.

Lend a Helping Hand

Always be willing to help out other anglers. This can be as simple as helping them retrieve something that has floated down-river or lending them something that they need, such as extra line. You're all there for a fun day of fly fishing so helping each other out just lends to the experience.