In a crossing situation, a vessel fishing must give way to a vessel which is:

In maritime navigation, the "Rules of the Road" specify that a vessel fishing, which is considered to be constrained by its activity, must yield to a vessel that is restricted in its ability to maneuver. This rule acknowledges the limitations faced by a vessel that may not be able to take evasive actions due to operational constraints, such as engaging in complex maneuvers or being unable to change direction easily.

The framework of the navigation rules is designed to promote safety and prevent collisions by establishing a hierarchy of which types of vessels must yield to others in various scenarios. A vessel that is restricted in its ability to maneuver usually represents a situation where the safety of navigation could be severely impacted if the fishing vessel did not give way, therefore prioritizing the protection of these operationally compromised vessels.

In contrast, while other vessels like those under sail or being towed have their own rules about right of way, a fishing vessel has a greater obligation to yield to those vessels that are restricted in their maneuverability due to the heightened risk present in a crossing situation. This principle ensures that vessels engaging in recreational and commercial activities can operate safely alongside one another.