VHF Radio Channel
 

What Channel do most use for the VHF channel?

I usually scan 16, 9 and 72,71 or if I know there is a channel to listen to for a reason, like the SMMT.

Thanks for the reply. I took my radio down to the bay and was able to pick up the WAX information, but anytime I tried to key the Mic it would not key. So I'm believing that the Mic is bad and is not transmitting a signal. Oh well it was worth a try.

I leave my VHF on scan for channels 9, 16, 69 (aka the Playboy channel), 71, and 72.

I believe that 22a is what the coast guard uses after a vessel in distress has hailed them on 16... that is an interesting channel to listen to sometimes. While out sailing to the Coronados once, my grandpa and I listened to the whole conversation between CG and a vessel that ended up going down.

Channels
 

My first post as im just getting into the sport. Yes, 16 is for hailing and distress ONLY, radio checks should be done on channel 9. 22A is alternate freq for coast guard. For those in the Long Beach area channel 72 is the primary channel for Long Beach pilots so please only "listen" on that channel. I work at vessel traffic service in San Pedro. Our channel for ship traffic is Channel 14.

Just got myself a xfactor and two mini x for my boys. Havent started rigging them up yet but looking forward to getting out there.
Ray , Lakewood CA

Welcome Ray, thanks for the info about radio freq. What is the protocol for radio use? What are the DOs and DONTs? Anyone with some sea experience want to lay this down?

Thanks, Matt

hahahaha....that's a bookload of info but here's some basics

1. TEST RADIO

Turn on radio.

Speak into radio: "Radio check."
Anyone who has heard the radio test can answer: "Check good." or "Loud and Clear" or "you sound like a fucking mud duck!"


2. RADIO ETIQUETTE

Allow a split second before beginning a transmission.

Be brief and to the point to keep the channel open for others to use.

Speak directly and clearly into the mic 2-3 inches away from your mouth.

Use the name of the person you are contacting and identify yourself as well: "scallywag to furry beaver."

Acknowledge that you have heard the communication: "This is furry beaver. Go ahead."


3. GENERAL RADIO TERMINOLOGY

20 = Location: what is your 20?


Acknowledge = Confirm that you understand my message

Affirmative = Yes, confirm

Check/Copy that = Understood

Correction = I made a mistake. Correct version is...

Do you read/Copy = Called you once or more, reply please

Go ahead = Listening, proceed with your message

Negative = No

Out = My message ended, no reply expected

Over = Message completed, reply expected

Read back = Repeat this message back to me

Roger = Yes, confirm

Say again = Repeat last message

Stand-by = Busy, please pause for a moment

That is correct = Yes, confirm

Wilco = Message understood, will comply

Words twice = Send every phrase twice


" " (silence) = I have nothing to say



Whats the size limit for rockfish? = I'm a dumbass.....:bandit:




Really as long as you stay off the CG channels its pretty much a free for all "shit show"....I always have a radio with me but don't use it much unless there is someone on the water I want to keep in touch with....cells are much more reliable/secure.

or you could take a safe boating course offered by us power squadrons or us coast guard, granted its hard work and the learning from these courses is infectious. However, the rewards will not only keep you safe but all the others on the water as well.......any and all of your questions will be answered by experienced sailors from all facets of seamanship.