How far do I have to keep from this fishing boat

[tudorsailor]

So we were sailing in the Gulf of Lion and encountered numerous fishing boats. None were huge and probably no more than 70 foot? When passing behind one with its net out, how much space do I need to give in order to be sure that I will not catch their net or lines?

Here is a typical boat that passed besides us

click on image to see full size where lines are visible


Thanks

TudorSailor

 

[onesea]

No experience in that area but, I would say look at the angle of the wire (if you can see it), and work from that? whilst watching for any surface disturbance.

Also watch the boat itself if your heading to close most of the time they will make it clear to you!

Other than that as far as as possible, its a fishing boat they do random things when you do not want them to.

Just like merchant ships, navy vessel, canoes, motorboats, dinghys, yachts,

Oh wait not yachts I am on yachty forum

 

[jonjo]

When passing behind one with its net out, how much space do I need to give in order to be sure that I will not catch their net or lines?

The trawler is even more strongly motivated not to catch you in his nets, he would have clocked you. Slow down, aim well aft say 10 trawler boat lengths.

Your top priority in such encounters is to identify a possible pair trawling buddy, these encounters are far more interesting.

 

[davidej]

If you assume that the wires behind have a slope of 1 in10, then from a davit 15 ft above the water to your draft (max 10 ft) below, would be 250 ft.

I would probably aim to leave a 1/4 mile ie a factor of 6 greater.

 

[capnsensible]

Quarter mile always does it for me.