You could have offered to swap seats with the passenger - assuming the person in front of your original seat did not need to recline.

I have friends that are 6'3" and it is a problem with the reclined seat in front. I am 6'0" and just make it with a reclined seat in front. My legs touch the seat back of the reclined seat. Add 3" and it is a problem.

I personally think that seats should not be allowed to recline at all. A vertical seat is like a non-reclining chair in your living room - which is acceptable.