VHF Tips

[TCS]

Per a recommendation here on the forum I just picked up a standard horizon 210. I’ve looked over the instructions and watched a few videos but could use some advice for our kayaking application.

A few questions that are top of mind are:
What is squelch and how do you use\set it.
What channels do you use for hailing, keeping in contact when fishing LJ?
Same question for offshore.
What channels do you monitor or scan?
What channel do you use for a radio check. I think 27 is the local automated check channel but it may be out of my range.
Speaking of range has anyone tested how far offshore a handheld will be able to contact a land based station?
Other tips or lessons learned you think we all should know.

I’m guessing that some other folks besides me could learn from this topic as well.

Thanks, Tom