A vessel engaged in fishing must keep out of the way of which type of vessel?

A vessel engaged in fishing must keep out of the way of a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. This is because vessels that are restricted in their ability to maneuver are often engaged in operations that prevent them from taking evasive action, such as towing, dredging, or laying underwater cables. These vessels may not be able to change course or speed as easily as others, making it essential for vessels engaged in fishing to give them a wide berth to avoid potential collisions.

In contrast, while sailing vessels and vessels underway but not making way can have specific navigation rights, they do not have the same restrictions as a vessel that is unable to maneuver effectively due to its operational constraints. A vessel aground may also not be actively maneuvering, but it is no longer in a navigating state, and thus its presence does not obligate a fishing vessel to take the same caution as it would with a maneuver-restricted vessel. Recognizing the differences in navigation rights and responsibilities according to the context of the vessels' operations is key to safe seamanship.