Prevention of collisions with Fishing Vessels

Close quarter situations with fishing vessels and/or their associated fishing gear remain common. This often results in loss of life, in addition to any damage to fishing gear or boats.

The range of equipment that fishermen deploy to catch fish is almost as varied as the fish themselves, but there are a number of common fishing methods that are used and these methods
will be explained, together with the lights and shapes that should be exhibited, the likely position of the gear in relation to the boat and typical fishing manoeuvres to be expected.
During the Passage Planning process, it may be worth contacting the vessel’s local agent or the local harbourmaster to enquire whether there are any particular fishing-related dangers to be considered when approaching a particular region or port. During calm weather, extra vigilance is required as this is the time when many small fishing vessels will go to sea.

Collisions with fishing vessels remain one of the most common navigational hazards, particularly in coastal waters, traffic separation schemes, port approaches and narrow channels. Fishing vessels often operate with restricted manoeuvrability, may deploy gear extending hundreds of metres—or even several miles—from the vessel, and do not always display the correct lights or shapes. Early identification, effective bridge resource management, and timely collision avoidance actions are essential for safe navigation. The guide also highlights the importance of understanding different fishing methods, maintaining a proper lookout, using radar and AIS effectively, communicating with fishing vessels whenever possible, and always allowing a generous Closest Point of Approach (CPA). 

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