Fishing Operations - Towing Fishing Gear Towing fishing gear can significantly reduce a fishing vessel’s overall stability due to several factors. While each factor maybe relatively small, the combined
impact is sometimes large, especially in heavy seas and when the fishing gear hangs up. First, the towing loads will act as added weight, which raises the vessel’s effective center of gravity G because the towing point is generally located high on the vessel. Second, the vessel’s
freeboard is reduced, especially in the aft corners, causing the deck edge to submerge at smaller heel angles. Third, as the vessel responds to passing
beam or quartering seas, the towing loads shift side to side on the vessel creating a temporary outboard shift in the vessel’s effective center of gravity G. Recommendations Tow directly off the vessel’s stern using the lowest towing point possible. Minimize fishing time when using high towing points. If potentially dangerous wind or waves are present, suspend all fishing operations.
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