KFF channel for the Gorge

[smokepoles]

I remember a while back a discussion of designating a KFF channel for the Gorge - 20? Did that ever happen to practical use, or does everyone just monitor 16 and switch from there?

I ask now because I just ordered a handheld for the boat and will put the channel in memory if it is used by KFF members.

 

[Bduck]

Like most, I listen to ch16 but move to a side band to further the conversation. It's sometimes hard to predict when other members are going to be at the Gorge, but there are times when they are scattered from one end to the other. My opinion handhelds are good for close proximenty but over all distance they don't have the reach. I have talked to Buckboard marina a few times while fishing in Linwood Bay. Installing an 8' antenna allows for a better reach with a good more permantly installed marine radio. Spending money for a good handheld can also buy a good regular radio with antenna. But it also depends what kind of boat you are running around in if it feasible to install a radio.

 

[SuperD]

Bduck makes a solid point about handhelds. VHF radios are basically line of site. Thus, a handheld allows you to essentially talk to the boat that you can see fishing in your immediate proximity. Handhelds = 1 watt to 5 watt as opposed to mounted at 25 watt. 8' antenna vs 6" antenna.

 

[smokepoles]

Good points on a fixed vs handheld that I considered. Still, a handheld will provide and additional margin of safety as compared to no radio, even if just to contact another boat. Also, I can take off boat to have in camp to listen to weather, etc.

As to range, being marine VHF is line of sight, how often does the terrain at the Gorge limit range rather than distance? I mean if you only have a 4 mile line of sight (due to terrain that dwarfs even an 8 foot antenna), does it matter if you transmit with 5 or 25 watts?

Over.

 

[SuperD]

I too have spoken with boats up near Buckboard while in the Lucerne area. What you will find with your handheld is that you will receive signals from great distances but not be able to transmit back. That is the power difference in the 2 radios. I have also heard transmitions up in the canyon but really scratchy. I think that is where the effect of the terrain comes into play. So, I'm guess that signals can be bounced at least a little bit but strength is probably deminished with each deflection.

 

[SmokeOnTheWater]

Sad to say it really didn't happen for practical use. Yes, Channel 20 was the selected site and I sent everyone who gave me their call sign a copy of the listing in order for members to contact one another. Just like Bduck said earlier, there's just too many variables. Most fishermen I know monitor Ch 16 for everything then switch to their own "SECRET CHANNEL".

One other thing I've noticed at the Gorge is a lack of fishing courtesy. I've witnessed a small gathering (3-4 boats) find cooperating fish and then be overrun by everybody and their mother horning in on their good fortune. I think that is why there appears to be too many "Code Talkers" on the Gorge? They'll hail their buddy on 16 and switch to another channel to discuss their success of the day or lack there of. I guess that goes to protect their real story of the day? Not a bad thing but just easier than changing their way.

I only received 12 names from members wanting tho play. I sent everyone who responded a copy of the list via PM so they could print it and carry it on their boat. Shoot, one member poked fun at the whole thing when I finally said enough is enough and chose the channel. If it's something our members want, then we need to step up to the plate, register and use it. Otherwise boaters will just continue to monitor Ch 16.

Unless you're going to use your radio purchase for other handheld only applications, I'd buy the VHF Marine Radio but make sure you match the antenna with the radio. I bought one at Sportsmen's Warehouse a few years ago without an antenna (they didn't sell them). As I read through the installation instructions, it speciffically stated not to use an antenna outside the correct power range. After reading the installation instructions for my radio, I had to go with Shakespeare's 5400 (4') antenna to stay within the power range. Somedays I can talk with friends from Anvil Draw to Buckboard and then in the canyons on the Utah side I'm limited to pretty much line of sight. Like any other electronic purchase, I've found that we need to do our homework to make sure our components are compatable. Good luck on your purchase.