There are two separate issues here. A criminal issue and a civil issue. On the criminal side, the other boater took off, leaving the scene of the accident, and with people in the water. I do not believe he will be able to mount too much of a defense against that. Even if he were to blame you for the accident, he still took off, and with you in the water. He's got a problem here. Your only job here will be as a witness to a crime.

For the civil matter, this is where your own attorney is needed. Should the other boater try to blame you, you need an advocate to show that you were not at fault. If you're fishing, lights on, you have the right of way. The impact will show that there was speed involved, which could not be you, since you WERE fishing, and thus not moving at a significant rate of speed. This plus point of impact (for both boats) will indicate who was doing what at the time of impact. Compensation will be proved here, and for all of that you need an attorney. And they generally work on a contingency basis.

You have to be made right, financially. This means loss of boat, tackle, equipment, transportation costs, and any medical expenses, etc. Any pain/ suffering, etc. will have to be worked out with your attorney.

Good luck!

Marty