What type of light must fishing boats display while fishing?

Fishing boats that are actively engaged in fishing during nighttime or low visibility conditions are required to display specific lights to ensure safety and visibility. The appropriate lighting is a combination of red and white lights over a masthead light.

The red light indicates the fishing activity, allowing other vessels to recognize that the boat is actively fishing and to maintain a safe distance. The white light is typically placed at the top, serving as an all-around light that enhances visibility from all angles. This combination helps to convey the boat's status to approaching vessels, thus preventing collisions and ensuring a safer environment on the water.

In contrast, the other light options, such as a simple white light or green light, do not convey the same fishing activity status. A red light alone would not provide adequate visibility to indicate that the vessel is engaged in fishing, while a green light is typically used to indicate a vessel's starboard side. Therefore, the combination of red and white lights over a masthead light is crucial for compliance with maritime regulations and for promoting safety while fishing.