RE: [Paddlewise] VHF

Chuck,

I carry an Icom M72 for several reasons. I've had both Uniden and Standard
radios in the past and the Icom appears to be much more water proof. I also
like the fact that it has a 6 watt capability on high power as opposed to 5
for the others. Also, it's best feature is called "aqua quake". By pushing
and holding two buttons, the radio emits a loud tone for about 15 seconds to
drive water out of the speaker grill. Most radios that "failed" only
couldn't transmit or receive because there was water in the speaker grill.

This radio fits very well in the front pocket of my pfd. I have both a
Kokatat Pro-Fit and an Extrasport Retroglide.

To my knowledge, the radios don't work well on inland lakes and rivers
because there is nobody to monitor them. On the ocean, I don't carry a cell
phone because the VHF is so much better. Anybody who is monitoring Ch 16 can
hear an emergency call while a cell phone can only reach one number at a
time.

Steve Holtzman

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net
[mailto:owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net] On Behalf Of skimmer
Sent: Wednesday, May 19, 2010 11:01 AM
To: PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net; 'Craig Jungers'; douglloyd_at_shaw.ca; 'Greg
Welker'; 'Greg Welker'; 'Scott Hilliard'
Cc: 'Jackie Myers'; 'Nick Schade'; 'Martin, Jack'
Subject: [Paddlewise] VHF 

What waterproof VHF radio do you like best for carrying on your PFD? If you
carry it other than on your PFD, what is your system and choice of radios?

 

What general discussion do you have regarding VHF radios?

 

It is pretty easy these days to get boaters to carry cell phones, even
though their use is discouraged by authorities. Who has experience with
waterproof cell phones?

 

At least some parts of the Pacific Coast have a specific system for cell
phone calls by marine traffic. What is that?

 

On inland waters, lakes, rivers etc, are cell phones or VHF radios equally
effective?

 

Thanks,

Chuck Sutherland
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