I think more fish photos could be improved by having the angler look at his fish or whatever he is doing, rather than grinning at the camera. Staring at the camera, smiling or not, holding a dead fish is why these are referred to as "hero shots" instead of photos.

Next, as Piper mentioned, get the lighting right, using fill flash if necessary. If the angler's face is all shadow, what's the point in taking a picture of it?

Last, try to choose interesting background, something that adds to the interest of the photo instead of detracting from it. A tree or boat oar sticking out of your partner's head probably isn't showing him at his best. Or maybe . . .

Another comment, Piper's avitar is a hero shot, but it works, in large part because the subject is a kid. Hero shots of adults are seldom interesting in my opinion. An exception: attractive bikini-clad woman holding or posing with any fish, but then, it's not really a fish pic, is it?

Sincerely,

Salmo g.