When passing over fishing nets, how should a vessel proceed?

When passing over fishing nets, a vessel should stop engines and cross as near to 90 degrees as possible to minimize the potential for entangling the nets. Approaching at a right angle reduces the risk of snagging the nets, which can be damaged or cause operational hazards for both the passing vessel and the fishing operation.

By stopping engines, the vessel decreases its forward momentum, reducing the chance of dragging nets dishonestly or inadvertently, which can have serious repercussions for the fishing gear and the fishermen. Additionally, crossing at approximately 90 degrees allows for a clearer understanding of the location of the nets, contributing to safe navigation.

While it may seem efficient to cross quickly or at any angle, such actions increase the risk of causing damage or entanglement, which is a primary concern while navigating near fishing activities. Therefore, adhering to the principle of crossing at right angles with the engines stopped serves both safety and operational best practices in marine navigation.