VHF 16

larglo · Post by **larglo** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 2:46 pm

Hi,

I have zero experience using a VHF radio. BoatUS says to use VHF 16, I assume that is the channel, to call for a tow, on a VHF radio. So,,,,when making a call on these things,,,,,,how is it done? Do I need to have a registered call sign, use the boat name,,,,,,like,,,,,Lady G calling BoatUS,,,,,,come in?

Don't laugh, that's the best I could come up with.

Any thoughts will help.

Larry

captainmaniac · Post by **captainmaniac** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 2:59 pm

There is a specific protocol to follow when using the VHF. Channel 16 is for hailing and emergency use only; all conversations are to be moved to a working channel.

The US Power Squadron likely has a squadron near you, and probably puts on a VHF Training course, among others. Actually, here is a link http://www.usps.org/e_stuff/seminars/vhf_sem.htm.

They will conduct courses in everything form basic boating, piloting, navigation, celestial navigation, marine electronics, weather, etc... Might be worth checking out. The more you know the more prepared you will be, and the more relaxed and enjoyable time you and your passengers will have on the water.

Stripermann2 · Post by **Stripermann2** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 3:06 pm

Very simple.

http://www.fish.state.pa.us/anglerboate ... fradio.htm

Torcan · Post by **Torcan** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 5:11 pm

I have been told having a VHF radio onboard in the US, and having it "ON" without a licence is a $300.00 fine if caught by the USCG, or local marine police.
This for Canadians in US waters

Don't know who monitors your lake there Larry, but I would get informed before using a radio.

And as some have said, it is basically a 1 day course to take and your covered, and learn all the protocols.

It's not a CB radio, and could mean life or death for someone, that is why it is so restricted in its use.

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 6:38 pm

No license needed in Larry's case , license is only needed if your from another country or going to another country . or in commercial use .

Your good to go larry rember 16 is for calling only and you switch to a working channel once contact is made . Read the links above .

Paul · Post by **Paul** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:47 pm

In Canada, the radio no longer needs to be licensed but the operator does. The operator requires a "Radio Telephone Operator's Restricted" certificate issued from Communications Canada. These can be obtained thru Power Squadron.

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 9:46 pm

Couldn't believe it when they did away with the station licence requirement Paul. I mean how often does the government actually get rid of a money grab!! And don't even get me started on the Pleasure Craft Operator's card.

rossjo · Post by **rossjo** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 9:50 pm

Larry - no calls for Pizza, Beer or Wine Coolers - thry frown on that!

Torcan · Post by **Torcan** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:00 pm

Paul wrote:In Canada, the radio no longer needs to be licensed but the operator does. The operator requires a "Radio Telephone Operator's Restricted" certificate issued from Communications Canada. These can be obtained thru Power Squadron.

I got both, the Operators Licence and the Station licence, as per my call sign in my Sig. reason being, if I want to travel across the lake, or if I cross the border by accident in the middle of the lake while fishing I'm covered. peace of mind I guess.

JGedridge · Post by **JGedridge** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:03 pm

if you want to call another vessel, use channel 9, 38-39-72 etc. 16 is for hailing marinas or emergency only. 22 is coast guard.

Joe

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:09 pm

Joe I will disagree , you may hail another vessel on 16. You should monitor 16 any time the VHF is on . once you make contact you switch to a working channel this goes contact with vessels or marinas

for emergences you use 16 because all vessels should monitor 16 ., the Coast guard Monitors 16 also and may use 22 after contact on 16

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Channel_16_VHF

Chanel 38 & 39 ??? do you have these ??

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:21 pm

Up here, we call marinas on 68. Do you guys south of us use a separate channel for this also?

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:26 pm

most marinas here monitor 16 , sometimes 9 many use 68 as a working channel .

I should note all the info I have posted relates to US VHF use

Big D · Post by **Big D** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:30 pm

Same deal up here Paul with 16 as a call channel and emerg only.

prowlersfish · Post by **prowlersfish** » Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:35 pm

Laws are different up north I see . I like the fact they listen to 16 here can be useful in a emergency .

CANADIAN MARINAS
Do not call marinas in Canada on Channel 16-they are not authorized to use 16.
All marinas monitor a common frequency, depending upon their location.
68 Marinas south of Courtenay.
73 Marinas Campbell River and north.