What should a vessel engaged in fishing do while navigating in a narrow channel?

A vessel engaged in fishing that is navigating in a narrow channel has a responsibility to avoid impeding the passage of other vessels. This duty aligns with the regulations outlined in COLREGs, particularly Rule 9, which addresses narrow channels and indicates that vessels constrained by their draft (such as fishing vessels) must not impede the passage of vessels that can safely navigate the channel. By doing so, the fishing vessel ensures safe and efficient navigation for all users of the waterway, thus reducing the risk of collisions.

The other options do not appropriately address the responsibilities of a fishing vessel in such scenarios. Although signaling other vessels to pass or anchoring might be considered in some circumstances, the priority is to maintain a safe flow of traffic and avoid obstructing vessels that are better equipped to navigate the channel. Speeding up is also inappropriate, as it could create dangerous situations, especially in confined waters where maneuverability is limited. Therefore, the safest and most compliant action is for the fishing vessel to avoid impeding the passage of other vessels.