I rode motorcycles for years. One thing I experienced early on was whenever I crossed paths with another biker traveling in the opposite direction I was almost always acknowledged. The greetings typically came by way of a fist with the index and middle fingers extended but spread apart. A peace sign meaning peace on the road.
The biker wave is as old as motorcycles. Apparently, it was started in 1904 when Harley-Davidson partners Arthur Davidson and William Harley passed each other and waved. It was noted by a passerby and believed to be etiquette among riders.
In contrast, when two anglers come upon one another on the water, they oftentimes act as though no one’s there – as if they don’t see one another.
I once heard someone compare this fishing phenomenon to riding an elevator. Elevator passengers are aware of one another but rarely make eye contact. Instead they stand silently, facing forward, gazing blankly as they wait for the elevator doors to open. I can understand how and why fly fishers sometimes behave in the same way.
Anglers love fly fishing for many reasons. For me, it’s the connection I make with nature. I love the solitude of casting from a float tube to bass on a high mountain lake, or wading for steelhead or trout on a remote stream. Fly fishing’s my Zen, my meditation. It’s a way for me to unwind and clear my mind. For several friends, fly fishing helps them gain entry into the outdoors. It removes them from the norm and from life’s day-to-day actions. For all of us, it’s a fun and exciting way to fish.
In pursuit of this pastime, I and countless other anglers often prefer not to be disturbed. For years, I believed this to be true. However, I once had an encounter that demonstrated I may be mistaken.
Back when the time I spent on a river was focused more on learning to present a fly rather than on catching fish, I crossed paths with an elderly angler. It was years later that I learned he was a nationally-ranked fly caster. After introducing himself, He took time out of his fishing day to offer me encouragement and helpful casting tips. When we met up again later in the day, he gifted me a fly reel – a demo model he had been given by a manufacturer to try out. I’ll always remember that day and try to pay forward his kindness. Off the water through my writings and on the water by greeting and sharing useful information with fellow anglers I cross paths with. These shared experiences have made mine that much richer and more rewarding.
Today, my angler wave has evolved into a head nod followed by “How’s it going? ” If I get a response back, great. If I don’t, that’s fine. I understand.
Just the same, the next time you’re fishing and cross paths with another angler, consider raising a hand, giving a nod, or saying hello and asking how the fishing’s been. You’ll never know whom you will meet, what you could learn, or what they might do for you.
Peace on the river!
