USCG Exam PracticeRule 10 — Traffic Separation Schemes
A vessel engaged in fishing is operating within a traffic separation scheme. Which statement correctly describes her obligations under Rule 10?
- A. She may fish within a separation zone and is exempt from all other provisions of Rule 10.
- ✓ She may fish within a separation zone but must not impede the passage of any vessel following a traffic lane.Correct
- C. She must remain in the inshore traffic zone and may not enter the separation zone under any circumstances.
- D. She is fully exempt from Rule 10 because fishing vessels are not required to use traffic separation schemes.
Why B is correct
33 CFR §83.10(e)(ii) permits a vessel to enter a separation zone to engage in fishing, but §83.10(i) separately requires that a vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any vessel following a traffic lane. Both provisions apply simultaneously; there is no blanket exemption.