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Other Special Situations
There are three other rules you should be aware of when operating your boat around other vessels.
Narrow Channels and Bends
When navigating in narrow channels, you should keep to the right when it is safe and practical to do so. If the
operator of a power-driven vessel is preparing to go around a bend that may obstruct the view of other water
vessels, the operator should sound a prolonged blast of four to six seconds on the horn. If another vessel is
around the bend, it too should sound the horn. Even if no reply is heard, however, the vessel should still proceed
around the bend with caution.
Fishing Vessel Right-of-Way
All vessels fishing with nets, lines, or trawls are considered to be “fishing vessels” 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.
BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD
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