Gulf Coast - Do the offshore shrimp boats all have AIS?

I'm thinking of adding AIS, but I don't really need it for safety purposes; however, if if makes finding shrimp boats offshore easier, I might do it.

Also, when the AIS returns show up on the screen are they designated as F/V or something similar?

I think any commercial vessel is required to have it. Now, whether they transmit or not, that's another story.

If the vessel info is configured properly in thier transmitter, they should show as fishing vessels, but your plotter would also need to make the distinction (it may just show everything w/ the same icons).

You can get an idea of what you may be able to see in your area here:
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/

I'm thinking of adding AIS, but I don't really need it for safety purposes; however, if if makes finding shrimp boats offshore easier, I might do it.



the shrimp boats are the ones with the nets hanging off the back
you're welcome...:grin:

I'm thinking of adding AIS, but I don't really need it for safety purposes; however, if if makes finding shrimp boats offshore easier, I might do it.

Also, when the AIS returns show up on the screen are they designated as F/V or something similar?

My HDS shows them as a triangle and designates them as "Dangerous Vessels" if they are inside distance and time criteria that I set.

If you get info on the symbol (an HDS function) it shows their MMSI number which is a great aid in making a direct quick call.

I don't think any shrimpboats carry AIS.

the shrimp boats are the ones with the nets hanging off the back
you're welcome...:grin:

Problem solved.

They are exempt under the CFR. There might be a few who carry it, but not many.


Big Al

There is no requirement for them to have AIS and very few do.