VHF Radio Channels

John, I've saved this information. Channel 16 on your VHF is a hailing channel; it is used for initiating communications. One boater will call to another on this channel for a very brief exchange and switch to an alternative "Non-commercial" channel if there is more to say.

Channel 16 is also for distress calls, and is listened to around the clock by the local Coast Guard stations. Give your name and tell them you are in a kayak and the color of that kayak, if in a group tell them the number of boats. Give your location and describe the nature of the emergency.

If you are in range you will receive instructions from authorities, otherwise you will be lucky if a near by boater hears your call. For safety reasons all vessels that have a VHF radio monitor 16 when not actively using other channels for communications.

Channels for non-commercial use, such as kayakers, can be used freely for group communications. These channels are: 68, 69, 71, 72, 78 & channel 9 is used as an alternative hailing channel shared with commercial users. Do not use the other channels that are available on your VHF as they are for distinct commercial, governmental and navigational purposes such as tended bridges and canal locks.

PACK has traditionally monitored Channel 69 for outings. Later, Chris

way to go John now we can talk without haveing hollar at each other .I cantn't waight for tournament I have fished since we where at Matay with pack hope my stuff still works.

Hawk

Hey Herschel, your fishing stuff almost always works. Betwix the 2 of us, fish will be caught. See you guys Friday evening.

John