Marine Radio?

[monstahfish]

I take mine too. I also carry a personal locator beacon in my pfd pocket. I used to keep hand flares in my tackle box too but haven't done that for a while.

[HobieScot]

Thank you Octico, the brand says Seafit. I believe I bought it at West Marine (can't remember for sure but that's where I bought almost everything for my boat back then so it's a good guess) probably 5-10 years ago. It had a charger base that it sat in to charge.

It hasn't been used in a long time so I am not sure it still works. I'd have to charge it to find out.

[FlyFishinYakr]

Right after my PFG, my next purchase was a quality VHF radio (Standard Horizon HX851 and even though it's waterproof and floats I also bought an Aqua-Pack w/p sack to ensure floatation).
After reading some of the threads about the use of a cell/radio, it dawned on me when someone pointed out that cell service can be sketchy on the water and that there are no cell towers on the water!
Although a top line VHF will not guarantee safety, there's a better chance of someone hearing your call for help on a radio.
Did you hear about that lone Kayaker lost for about 16 hours out of Ventura? I'm pretty sure someone would have heard him on a radio if he had carried one, with all the day boats, twilight, overnight, etc. coming in and departing the harbor.
A flare gun is next on my wish list.
Just my thoughts/observations.
FFY

[jorluivil]

I've said this a million times......whatever radio you get try to find one that has the external mic connection, you'll thank me later

[DanaPT]

Originally Posted by jorluivil

I've said this a million times......whatever radio you get try to find one that has the external mic connection, you'll thank me later

I've heard you ball bust out there.

[TroutBum]

I take one! Peace of mind.

[jorluivil]

Originally Posted by DanaPT

I've heard you ball bust out there.

You must gots me confused with those team sewer guys........them a bunch of lame ass foo's

[Redeyejedi]

mine just arrived today, reading through manual.

[FISH11]

I always take mine. A cell phone will only work when it's dry. If you end up in the water, you won't be able to call for help on your cell phone.

[Batmann]

Originally Posted by monstahfish

I take mine too. I also carry a personal locator beacon in my pfd pocket. I used to keep hand flares in my tackle box too but haven't done that for a while.

I am curious. Can you please post a link to the PLB that you are using.


I use the following radio with good results. Get the extended warranty, they go on sale all the time. It has tri-watch so I usually monitor CH 16, 9 and 69 or 70 depending on the fishing chatter that day without missing any emergency traffic.

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-m...adio--14078562

Another inexpensive locating device that you can use is a chem light to make a buzzsaw during darkness. It has a very long range viability especially from the air

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zH_dzakIGw

Think of it as a PACE plan.

Primary - VHF radio
Alternate - PLB
Contingency - Whistle/Cellphone
Emergency - Chemlight/Strobe

[Rocketfish]

Originally Posted by Batmann

Another inexpensive locating device that you can use is a chem light to make a buzzsaw during darkness. It has a very long range viability especially from the air

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zH_dzakIGw

Interesting! i wonder if a regular glo stick from the dollar tree and a string would work almost as well.

[makobob]

Originally Posted by Rocketfish

Interesting! i wonder if a regular glo stick from the dollar tree and a string would work almost as well.

In an EMERGENCY, your life might hang in the balance, do you want ALMOST as well? Really?

[HobieScot]

Well I tried to revive my old VHF to no avail so it seems that I find myself in the market for a new one.

Can you guys recommend a new brand/model that I should look into. I looked at West Marine today and I was looking on Amazon and it seems that they all seem to have the same basic features. The main difference is price. Ranging anywhere from $70-$300.

Are there any brands to stay away from? Any features that are a must have other than the obvious being waterproof.

Thanks in advance for your help

[fishbullie]

I was looking into this and think the floating feature is one of the best thing to look for. Waterproof doesn't seem to cover the battery area on most units....

[Big Wave Dave]

I've lost two. I recommend the floating type. One of mine sunk, the other fell off while I was busy gaffing a fish. Didn't notice till much later. I am debating whether or not to buy a third one. If I do, I think I'll duct tape it to the side of my head.

[Goose1993]

I do.

And is everyone out there at lj on a certain channel to chat?