Understanding Why Fishing Boats Turn Off AIS
If you’ve ever used the MarineRadar app to track vessels, you might have noticed something unclear. A fishing boat can be seen clearly on the map one moment, then vanish the next. This often raises an important question: why do fishing boats turn off their AIS?
Let’s break this down step by step so that even someone unfamiliar with marine tracking can understand it correctly.
What Is AIS, and Why Does It Matter?
AIS stands for Automatic Identification System. It is like a digital name tag for ships.
When AIS is turned on, a vessel sends out signals that share:
- Its current location
- Speed and direction
- Vessel type (such as fishing boat, cargo ship, or tanker)
- Identification details
The MarineRadar app collects this information and shows it on live maps. As a result, AIS helps improve safety, navigation, and awareness at sea.
However, fishing boats turn off their AIS more often than large commercial ships, and there are several reasons for this.
The Main Reasons Fishing Boats Turn Off AIS
1. Protecting Fishing Spots
One of the biggest reasons fishing boats switch off their AIS is to protect valuable fishing locations.
Fishing grounds are like secret treasure spots. If competitors see where a boat is fishing, they may rush to the same area. Therefore, many fishing crews turn off AIS to keep their locations private.
2. Avoiding Competition at Sea
Fishing is highly competitive. When boats broadcast their exact positions, others can easily follow them.
Because of this, fishing boats turn off AIS to:
Avoid being followed
Reduce crowding in fishing zones.
Maintain a competitive advantage.
3. Reducing Fuel and Equipment Costs
AIS equipment uses power. Conserving fuel and battery life is crucial for small fishing boats.
Sometimes, fishing boats turn off AIS simply to:
Save electricity
Reduce equipment wear
Operate efficiently during long trips.
4. Operating in Remote or Coastal Areas
Many fishing boats work close to shore or in remote waters where AIS coverage is weaker.
In such cases:
AIS signals may not transmit properly
Boats may appear and disappear on radar.
Crews may turn off AIS if it provides little benefit.
5. Safety and Security Concerns
In some regions, fishermen worry about piracy, theft, or harassment.
Fishing boats, therefore, disable AIS to:
Avoid being targeted
Reduce visibility in risky waters.
- Protect crew safety
Is It Legal for Fishing Boats to Turn Off AIS?
The vessel’s location and size affect this.
- Large commercial vessels are usually required to keep AIS on
- Small fishing boats often have more flexibility.
- Local maritime laws vary by country.
In many cases, fishing boats legally turn off AIS, especially when regulations allow it.
How Does the MarineRadar App Handle AIS Gaps?
MarineRadar attempts to assist users even when AIS is disabled.
They may:
- Show the last known position
- Display delayed updates
- Temporarily remove the vessel from the map.
Once AIS is turned back on, the fishing boat usually reappears.
The Effects on Trackers of Fishing Boats
For users, missing AIS data can feel frustrating. However, understanding the reasons helps manage expectations.
If you notice that fishing boats turn off their AIS, remember:
- It does not always mean a technical issue
- The vessel may still be nearby.
- Safety or privacy is frequently the cause.
Can Fishing Boats Be Tracked Without AIS?
Without AIS, tracking becomes difficult.
MarineRadar mainly relies on AIS data. Some advanced systems may use:
- Satellite tracking
- Coastal radar feeds
- Historical movement patterns
Tips for Better Fishing Boat Tracking
To improve your experience:
- Zoom into active fishing regions
- Check maps during peak fishing hours.
- Refresh the app regularly.
- Combine AIS data with port activity.
Why Does AIS Matter for Marine Safety?
AIS is still an essential safety tool even though fishing boats turn it off.
When properly utilized, it
- Prevents collisions
- Helps in rescue operations
- Improves maritime awareness
Conclusion
Why do fishing boats turn off AIS? The answer is not simple, but it is understandable. From protecting fishing spots to ensuring crew safety, there are many valid reasons.
While this behavior can make tracking harder, the MarineRadar app still provides valuable insights. Knowing the reasons behind AIS shutdowns helps users track vessels more calmly and responsibly.
Download MarineRadar: Vessel Tracker from the Google Play Store or App Store today and experience real-time ship tracking.
FAQs
Why do fishing boats disappear from marine radar?
Because it’s possible that signal coverage is inadequate or that AIS is turned off.
Is turning off AIS illegal for fishing boats?
Not always. Rules depend on vessel size and local regulations.
Do all fishing boats use AIS?
No. Some small boats may not have AIS installed at all.
Will the boat reappear once AIS is turned on?
Yes. Once AIS is active again, the vessel usually shows up on marine radar.
