Looking for a good handheld radio
 

Just as the title says. Before I really get out there, I gotta make sure all my ducks are in a row. So with that being said, what types of radios does everyone bring on their trips. Looking for something waterproof obviously, but reliable overall. Looked at a few at west marine, but figured who better to confer with than those on the water everyday doing what we all love.

Tight lines,
Cadillyak

I went with an inexpensive radio from west marine, haven't had it long but so far no problems. If I had more to spend I'd probably get a floating radio, but I keep it attached to my PFD so I'm not too worried.

I have the west marine as well. I never use it

Bet ya could Snag this one for a $100 .
Not mine but I've had Icom's in the past with good results.

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/boa/3845040141.html

Got this one from bass pro a few months ago. Have been very pleased with it. Its waterproof and floats. Would be better if a little smaller, which they have at a little higher price. They have a $20 rebate going on as well.

http://www.basspro.com/Standard-Hori...duct/10210160/

This is what I have and it works great. Never had a problem with it.
http://www.basspro.com/Cobra-MR-HH12...duct/10223893/

I had 2 of these.
http://www.basspro.com/Uniden-Atlant...product/52738/

The first one I did not attach to a leash and it's now resting below the bait barge in San Diego bay, and the other one the antenna wasn't all the way tight and water got into it. The new radio I have which is the top one works as it should and never had an issue.

I have my iPhone and Armor waterproof case for calls if I need it. I don't think I have ever been too far for service. Unless you want to hear chatter on a port ops channel or 16, I don't see the need for a VHF radio.

5 watt radios are good for about 3-5 miles? Which is well within cell service.

I just came across a free one today. Is there any use for it other than for an emergency? What channels should I be on?

I also would like to know. I was going to get walkie talkies but figured I could do the same thing if me and whoever I was out with we're in the same channel. Kinda kill 2 birds with one shell type deal. His does everyone communicate while not in "shouting" range?

La jolla boys are usually on 68

Hand held radio
 

I have a Standard Horizon HX851 which floats. Never had to use it yet but it receives well! :)
FFY

It would behove a few of you new peeps to, at the VERY least, take a safe boating class. The above statement just smells of intimate danger. Your life is at stake every moment you are on the water, To know a little something about something could save a life. Two organizations that I support and OFFER free boating and safety classes is the United States Coast Guard and the United States Power Squadron....both excellent organizations with valuable information.

I agree with this statement 100%. I took a class about 8 years ago, and it was worth it. Having your cell phone is nice, but having a VHF with others near by also on the radio, it much more helpful. Be safe people and carry all the safety gear needed.