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.....
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.