Include something reasonable for return postage. $5 or less should do. . No volunteer SwapMaster should have to shoulder the entire cost. . But don't be over-generous. That could put an additional sense of obligation, with no way to fulfill it, on the SM.
Send your own fly box or other reusable container. . Anything but nymphs requires more than a flat envelope, and putting together a dozen suitable boxes entails quite a bit of effort. As best you can anticipate, use a box large enough to fit the return flies (your engagement ring box might fit your dozen #22 midges, but will it fit the shark flies the others tie?).
Make up, if not install (not always packagingly convenient), your own 'toe tags', with fly name and tier handle. And avoid too large a tag. . Another SM-saving chore.
Tie enough flies for all participants, including yourself. . Keeps the SM's job simple, not having to track different fly sets.
Keep the SM informed. . Being a little late is no big deal, but silence leaves the SM in anxious, and helpless, limbo.
Have fun with it all. . That's an easy one. Should be first on the list.
