RedactedNarrative: Both vessels were participating in Salmon Unlimited Illinois fishing tournament, which took place out of North Point Marina in the town of Winthrop Harbor. Vessel #1 and Vessel #2 both headed out from the marina at approximately the 4:30 am. Vessel #1 said they waited till most of the boats had cleared the Marina before heading towards the break wall. Once leaving the harbor they headed North/East. Vessel #1 stated once they left the break wall there were 3-5ft waves.  Vessel #1 attempted to power up, but the passenger was uneasy and the operator reduced speed. Not long after they made contact with Vessel #2 on their starboard/bow side. Vessel #1 stated they never saw the other vessel until the two vessels struck.
   
  Vessel #2 left the marina after setting their rod holders and ensuring their navigation lights were properly working.  Upon exiting the harbor the vessel headed North/East and hit rough water. Shortly after a thermos fell from the helm and rolled to the back of the boat.  The operator reduced speed and a passenger went to retrieve the thermos.  At this time they were struck by Vessel #1 on their port/stern side. 
  
  Both vessels headed back to the harbor to inspect for damage. Vessel #1 had a broken window on their starboard/bow side. Vessel #2 had a broken downrigger, both motors to their downriggers were loose, two damaged rod holders, and a missing rod tree.  Vessel #2 did not realize until the sun rose that their port side railing was also damaged. The damage to the railing was more severe towards the back shearing several screws, with the damage tapering towards the bow.
  
  After assessing the damage, both vessels determined no critical damage happened to their vessels and left the harbor to continue fishing.
  