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Fishing vessel right-of-way
All vessels which are fishing with nets, lines
or trawls are considered to be “fishing ves-
sels” under the International Rules. Vessels
with trolling lines are not considered fishing
vessels. Fishing vessels have the right-of-
way regardless of position. Fishing vessels
cannot, however, impede the passage of
other vessels in narrow channels.
Sailing vessel right-of-way
Sailing vessels should normally be given the
right-of-way. The exceptions to this are:
1. When the sailing vessel is overtaking
the power-driven vessel, the power-driv-
en vessel has the right-of-way.
2. Sailing vessels should keep clear of any
fishing vessel.
3. In a narrow channel, a sailing vessel
should not hamper the safe passage of
a power-driven vessel which can navi-
gate only in such a channel.
Reading buoys and other markers
The waters of the United states are marked
for safe navigation by the lateral system of
buoyage. Simply put, buoys and markers
have an arrangement of shapes, colors,
numbers and lights to show which side of the
buoy a boater should pass on when navigat-
ing in a particular direction. The markings on
these buoys are oriented from the perspec-
tive of being entered from seaward (the boat-
er is going towards the port). This means that
red buoys are passed on the starboard
(right) side when proceeding from open wa-
ter into port, and black buoys are to port (left)
side. When navigating out of port, your posi-
tion with respect to the buoys should be re-
versed; red buoys should be to port and
black buoys to starboard.
Many bodies of water used by boaters are
entirely within the boundaries of a particular
state. The Uniform State Waterway Marking
System has been devised for these waters.
This system uses buoys and signs with dis-
tinctive shapes and colors to show regulato-
ry or advisory information. These markers
are white with black letters and orange
boarders. They signify speed zones, restrict-
ed areas, danger areas, and general infor-
mation.
Remember, markings may vary by geo-
graphic location. Always consult local boat-
ing authorities before driving your boat in
unfamiliar waters.