Re: vhf
Every area is different. Out here offshore they use 77 in some areas and 88 in some areas also 65. Also the non Commerical channels 68, 69, 71, 72.
If your radios scans just scan the whole group for a while on a busy weekend and it will not take you long to find the fishing traffic.
Stay clear of 16 calling and distress (required to monitor) and the Coast Guard channels 22A, 6. Channel 21 Coast Guard only and 83 Coast Guard Aux.
Chit Chat is not allowed by rules but if you stay off the the Coast Guard channels and Vessell Traffic channels (12, 13, 14) should have no problems. Also channel 70.