How to Pass a Fishing Boat Safely

When navigating the water, understanding the right-of-way rules is crucial to avoiding collisions. Fishing boats, especially those actively engaged in fishing, have priority over powered vessels. Here’s what you need to know about passing a fishing boat safely.

Understanding the Right-of-Way

Unlike road traffic, boating doesn’t follow strict lane systems. Instead, navigation follows a hierarchy based on a vessel’s ability to maneuver. The general order of priority is:

1. Sailboats under sail
2. Fishing boats actively engaged
3. Vessels restricted by draft
4. Boats with limited maneuverability due to equipment in the water (e.g., nets)
5. Unmanned vessels
6. Boats being overtaken by another
7. Powerboats underway (lowest priority)

Fishing boats engaged in active fishing take precedence over powered boats, except when trolling. Trolling vessels must adhere to standard powerboat navigation rules.

Navigation Rules and Key Terminology

• Hull – The body of the boat
• Bow – The front of the boat
• Stern – The back of the boat
• Port – The left side
• Starboard – The right side
• Give-Way Vessel – The boat that must yield
• Stand-On Vessel – The boat that maintains course and speed

Passing a Fishing Boat

Crossing Paths

If a fishing boat is on your starboard (right) side, you are the stand-on vessel, and the fishing boat must yield. However, always stay alert and communicate with the other boat to prevent any misinterpretations.

Meeting Head-On

When approaching a fishing boat head-on, both vessels should pass port-to-port (left side to left side) while maintaining a safe speed. Reduce speed if needed to minimize wake, as fishing boats often have lower freeboards and can take on water from large wakes.

Nighttime Navigation

At night, navigation lights help determine a boat’s direction:

• Port (left) light – Red
• Starboard (right) light – Green
• Stern (rear) light – White

If you see a red light, the boat is crossing from your left, and you must yield. If you see a green light, you are the stand-on vessel.

Navigating in Tight Spaces

In narrow channels, steer to the right (similar to driving) and allow larger vessels the right-of-way. Fishing boats should avoid anchoring in channels.

Sailboats and Fishing Boats

Sailboats under sail have the right-of-way over powerboats, but those using an engine must follow standard powerboat rules.

Additional Safety and Courtesy Tips

• Keep a safe distance – Fishing lines can extend far from a boat, and getting too close can cause entanglement.
• Minimize wake – Avoid excessive speed near fishing boats to prevent disrupting their vessel’s stability.
• Respect anchored boats – Fishing boats at anchor have the right-of-way.
• Stay aware of surroundings – Accidents happen quickly; always watch for changes in boat traffic.

In 2017, the US Coast Guard recorded nearly 4,300 boating accidents, with over 15% involving fishing boats. Whether fishing or just enjoying the water, practicing good seamanship and following navigation rules will help ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.