How fast does a fishing boat go?

Fishing boats, also called fishing vessels or fishing trawlers, vary greatly in size, type and speed. Their speed depends on several factors, including the size of the vessel, the type of hull design, and the propulsion systems used. Here are some common types of fishing boats and their approximate speed ranges:

1. Small Fishing Boats: These are usually used by individual fishermen for recreational or small-scale commercial fishing. They can be powered by outboard engines or small inboard engines. The speed of these boats typically ranges from 5 to 15 knots (nautical miles per hour) or 9.2 to 27.7 kilometers per hour.

2. Trolling Boats: These boats are designed for trolling, a fishing method where lines with baited hooks are dragged behind the boat. They are usually equipped with downriggers or outriggers to control the depth of the lines. Trolling boats typically have speeds ranging from 1.5 to 6 knots (2.7 to 11.1 kilometers per hour).

3. Commercial Fishing Boats: Commercial fishing boats come in various sizes and types, depending on the target species and fishing methods. Some common types include trawlers, longliners, gillnetters, and seiners. These vessels can range in size from small vessels to massive factory ships. Their speeds can vary from 8 to 15 knots (14.8 to 27.7 kilometers per hour) for smaller vessels, while larger fishing boats may have speeds of up to 20 knots (37 kilometers per hour) or more.

4. Sportfishing Boats: Sportfishing boats are used for recreational fishing and are designed for comfort, speed, and fishing capabilities. They typically have outboard motors or inboard/outboard engines. The speeds of sportfishing boats can range from 25 to 45 knots (46.3 to 83.3 kilometers per hour).

5. Racing Fishing Boats: These are high-performance fishing boats specially designed for fishing tournaments and competitions. They are equipped with powerful engines and can reach speeds of over 50 knots (92.6 kilometers per hour).

It's important to note that these are general speed ranges, and the actual speed of a fishing boat may vary based on factors such as weather conditions, sea state, payload, and the specific design and capabilities of the vessel.