BigBendFishing.Net

Starting to look at a VHF radio as part of my arsenal of safety equipment on the new boat. Some might consider it overkill for a 15'er - but I want to do a good bit of running around in Apalachee Bay and want to have all my bases covered in case myself or somebody else needs a hand. In addition, I like the idea of communicating with other fisherfolk and havng NOAA Wx on hand.

Here's what I'm looking at now:

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... atcat21276

Any thoughts? They've got a special on a 38" ant. as well. Haven't decided on which ant yet.

Thanks - dave

I found a Lowrance LVR-850 for $84.99 plus $11.99 shipping at:

http://www.anchorexpress.com/lowrance-l ... radio.html

I could not figure out from the Cabelas site if shipping is included or if not, how much it is. Cabelas is a reputable store, but their prices are always too high for me when compared to other internet vendors.

One thing I have heard in this forum and at boat stores, is that your VHF antenna is sooo important to good transmission and reception. I went with a Shakespeare 5225-XT Galaxy 8' VHF, but you may not be able to handle that much height on your boat. If you are interested, cheapest drive-out price (free shipping) was here:
http://www.laptraveler.com/marine-accessories.htm

Check this one out while you're looking:

http://www.standardhorizon.com/indexVS. ... Archived=0

Dave-

Remember you get what you pay for. Look for something that is submersible, and has at least a three year guarantee against water intrusion.
It's part of your safety, and you want it to work when you need it.

thats my .02

Dave,

I am in the market for a radio also and have been looking around quite a bit. I was also considering the Lowrance 850 since cabelas throws in the antenna for 19$. I know Lowrance makes decent sounders and plotters but the radio only has a one year warranty and that scares me a bit. I have found the Uniden Solara with dsc for $99 somewhere else and have found the standard horizon quest for $117 at this site ...

http://www.marinewholesales.com/

the standard horizon has a three year warranty at no charge the uniden is three year with a flat rate of $49.99. I'm going to go with the Standard Horizon since I've only read good reviews about them and they have been making radios for quite some time. Also, I dont think that merchant marine antenna that cabelas was selling has as much gain as the shakespere 3' ss whip antennas.
hope this helps

Standard Horizon or ICOM....you can't go wrong with either one of those....Don't skimp on safety equipment, get the best you can...