When it is time to go fishing, finding a place near you to go fishing should be fun. onWater can help with that. But when it comes to finding the right fishing buddy to go on the adventure with you, things might get a little more tricky. We can all use more friends, but choosing the best angling partner can involve a little trial-and-error. Here’s some insight for both you and your angling friend.

Similar angling interests. Be sure to choose an angling companion who shares a complimentary passion—chucking streamers, technical dry-fly fishing, hiking miles into remote waters to catch a native Grayling, into the carp game, and so forth. If you’re polar opposites, it will be tough to maintain the angling friendship. While fishing together you certainly fish differently, as it’s OK for one of you to deep nymph with a worm or an egg and the other to prospect with dry flies.

Secrets are for loners. A surefire way to always fish alone is to catch fish but never be willing to share the love. Fishing karma and sharing some information is a foundation of good fishing karma. If your angling companion is one worth keeping and you’re always catching and they are not, share the good news. Tell them what fly they’re biting on…but also let them self discover; you don’t always have to tell them what size tippet you are using and exactly where to place the fly.

Don’t choose a cheapskate. A day of fishing usually entails burning some gas to get to a river. There might also be a sack lunch during the day or après fishing cocktails or dinner. Choose a companion who offers to drive every now and then. One who doesn’t flinch at buying a round when you catch a 2-footer. And, always look in the mirror—make sure you’re the guy driving some and buying some. This also applies if you have a friend with a boat. If you can row, row your fair share. If you cannot row and you’re fishing in your friend’s boat, you better learn to row if you want to be invited back.

A dog also counts as a fishing companion. Most fly fishing, at its core, is an experience between an angler, a river and the hope a fish will rise. Bringing your dog on a fishing trip with other anglers is not always the best idea, but an angling session with just you and your dog is often ideal. A dog will never comment on your back cast, is always happy to go fishing, and will most likely fall asleep on the way home.

Choosing who to go fishing with is often as important and choosing where to go fishing near you. Take your time and pick the right angling buddy for your next fishing trip.

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