Goharley,

Coupla additional points.

1) the first time you try to go into one of the lines, don't try to go between the boats, just go to the outside or inside. Don't try to split the line until you know what you are doing. As Dave said, don't do it unless you have good reason to believe that it won't be resented. Asking first is a good idea.

2) a sort of a practical execution point. Set up to anchor by motoring up to the spot you want to anchor to, and then use the existing boat as an indicator of the direction you should take to motor upstream. Then motor quickly, rather than slowly, in that direction, so the current has less time to take you off course. Drop the anchor, and then point your bow awaay from the other boats a bit while you are dropping line and easing down, which you should do by giving just a bit of motor against the current. The reason for this is that the current will push your boat away from, rather than into the line,

3) When you drop anchor, make sure that you use enough rope, ie, go far enough upstream. In most areas, the minumum rope you should have out is 100 feet, and 120-150 feet is better. In areas where the current is smokin, you need 200 feet of rope, minimum.

4) Make sure that you have the proper anchor. If you don't have a rocking chair anchor, don't try to hog line. You'll just get frustrated, and people will just get mad at you.

A lot of hog line etiquette is proper equipment and proper technical execution. Nobody get's mad if you don't screw up.