What type of vessel uses a cone day shape pointing down?

• A. A fishing vessel with gear outboard
• B. A vessel at anchor
• C. A sailing vessel operating under power
• D. A vessel towing

Answer: (C)

Understanding day shapes helps others gauge what your vessel is doing and how it might maneuver. A single cone that points downward is the signal used when a fishing vessel has fishing gear extended outboard. The downward orientation visually suggests gear deployed below or alongside the vessel, signaling that the vessel may have restricted or unpredictable maneuverability and that other vessels should pass with extra caution. This shape is distinct from indicators for other situations, such as vessels at anchor or sailing vessels under power, so it clearly communicates the fishing activity to nearby mariners.