Cannot believe we are having this discussion yet again, but I've never put my .02 in until now.

On short-haul flights, I don't typically recline, UNLESS it's an early morning or evening flight, and I am exhausted and want to sleep (which isn't unusual considering my travel schedule).

Either way, I have paid for the seat, the airline has provided a recline feature, therefore, it's my prerogative to recline or not recline. If it bothers you, then recline your seat as well. If you don't fit in a regular seat, choose the bulkhead or an exit row.