Kory, they say that 5% of fisherman catch 90% of the fish. So it would make since that 95% of the people you are asking don't catch that many fish.
You need to spend as much time on the rivers as possible(when open)and watch the people that are catching fish. See what they are using, doing, were they are casting, ext. Think of some well thought out ?s and ask them. Make it short and to the point and try and do it while there rigging up or walking. Most people would be more than happy to help you as long as you don't pester them or interuped them while there fishing. Hands on experiance goes a long way.Patience is also a key.I don't know anyone who learned to fish overnight.Good luck.