to VHF or not VHF ?

[dsafety]

My radio weighs well over a pound and is too bulky to keep on my vest. I used to take it with me and keep it in the front hatch for emergencies. So far none have occurred.

These days I only carry my iphone. It works great at least three miles off LJ and O'side. I have not tested the limits of the signal but I suspect it will go a bit farther.

I carry it in a waterproof pouch that hangs around my neck so it is always easily accessible. I can operate it while it is the pouch so it is really convenient. I have not flipped while wearing the phone but I am sure it would survive the event. This is not something I plan to test, however.

The iPhone, (and most other smart phones), can double as a GPS and compass as well. If you have a good charting app such as Navonics, you can even chart your trip and mark way points.

I agree that you can never be too prepared when it comes to safety while on a kayak but I feel safe enough when armed with my phone. On the other hand, you will probably not catch me fishing in some of the places and conditions that Jim and others sometimes do.

Bob