Fishing boats are a common sight in the waters around the world. Whether you’re on a river, lake, or ocean, chances are you’ll see a few fishing boats out catching their daily haul. One thing that you may have noticed is that many fishing boats have red lights on them. So,? The answer lies in both tradition and practicality.
Traditionally, fishing boats have had red lights as a way to help other boats see them in the dark. Fishing boats have been outfitted with red lights for centuries, as a way to distinguish themselves from other types of boats. Red lights are also used by other boats, such as ferries and cargo ships, as a way to mark their positions and ensure they are seen by other boats around them.
From a practical standpoint, red lights on fishing boats help to attract fish. Fish are naturally attracted to certain colors, and red is one of those colors. Red lights can help to draw in fish, making it easier for fishermen to catch their prey. They can also be used to light up the water around the boat, making it easier for fishermen to see what they’re doing and to avoid hazards.
In addition to attracting fish, red lights on fishing boats also help to ensure the safety of the crew. Working on a fishing boat can be dangerous, particularly at night when visibility is limited. A red light can help other boats to see the fishing boat from a distance, reducing the risk of collisions. The red light can also help the crew to navigate around the boat safely, making it easier to perform tasks such as checking nets, handling gear, and gutting fish.
In some cases, fishing boats may also use green lights. These lights are typically used to mark the starboard, or right side of the boat. Green lights can be used in conjunction with red lights to help other boats determine the direction in which the fishing boat is moving. This can be particularly useful in busy waterways, where boats need to maneuver around each other carefully to avoid collisions.
Overall, fishing boats have red lights for a variety of reasons. They help to distinguish the fishing boat from other types of boats, attract fish, and ensure the safety of the crew. Red lights are a long-standing tradition in the fishing industry, and are likely to remain a fixture on fishing boats for years to come.