How do COLREGs treat fishing vessels in crossing situations?

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In crossing situations, no vessel has automatic priority just because it’s a fishing vessel. COLREGs apply the same collision-avoidance rules to every vessel, focusing on keeping risks minimal, not on vessel type. If there’s a risk of collision, the give-way vessel (the one that must take action to avoid) and the stand-on vessel (the one that should maintain course if safe) apply their duties accordingly, and both must act promptly to avoid danger. A fishing vessel may have gear that restricts maneuverability, and Rule 9 does say it should not impede other vessels, but this does not grant it priority. The key point is that fishing vessels are treated with the same collision-avoidance principles as everyone else: assess risk and, if needed, alter course or speed to keep clear.