VHF Marine Radio - The Basics

VHF radios are essential to all boaters. This radio could potentially save your life or help you save the life of another. VHF radios are used for emergency and non-emergency situations, however, they are also used to alert boaters of information on the water – be it an approaching storm or a sinking vessel.

There are two main channels you’ll need to remember when on your boat -- channel 16 and channel 9 (note: channel 9 is only available in waters off of the northeastern shore—New York, Northern New Jersey, and New England). These channels are used for emergency and non-emergency calls. All boaters are required to keep a constant watch on channel 16. Many boaters simply turn their radios off because they wish not to listen to static, etc. -- this is a major issue. Your radio should remain on and turned up at all times. There have been many situations where boaters did not have their radios on and as a consequence, were not aware and could not out run storms, or did not know about a sinking vessel close to them. In both situations, casualties could have been prevented if the captain would have simply left their VHF radio on.

Radio channels 9 & 16 may be used to hail other vessels or to make the first initial contact with a marina or restaurant when wondering where to tie your boat up when coming into dock. However, you’ll need to switch over to another channel once you make contact with your party so that you’re not jamming up the main channels. At no point should you use your radio as a ‘telephone’ to chit-chat with other boaters or someone on shore.

Channels 6, 13, and 22A are also important channels for boaters to remember.

• Channel 6 is reserved for intership safety use and is mainly used during search and rescue operations.
• Channel 22A is reserved for communications with the Coast Guard and should be for Coast Guard use only (not open to other vessels). This channel is used by the US Coast Guard when relaying marine information broadcasts. Since not everyone is interested in these broadcasts, the US Coast Guard will make their first initial contact on channel 16, letting all boaters know that they will make their announcement (that may or may not be important to each boater) on channel 22A, and that interested boaters should switch over to that channel immediately for more info. 
• Channel 13 is for navigational use between vessels. Large vessels us channel 13 (no need to use channel 16 for this situation first, channel 13 is both a calling and working channel) when relaying their intentions to one another and when they arrive at bridges and locks. Channel 13 is restricted to 1 watt, so be sure to switch your radio to low power when using this channel.

Channels 68, 69, 71, 72, 78A are all used as “working” stations and are available for you to use at any time (as long as no one else is using them) when you switch your conversation over from channel 9 or 16.



For a complete listing of all boating channels (including those in international waters), click here.

If you are trying to communicate with a boat that is nearby, make sure you set your radio on low power so that your signal will not carry further than it needs to. If you’re trying to communicate with a boat or location that is further away, you can use high power. In all situations, use kind language and no profanity. Vulgar language is illegal and can also offend other boaters, especially those with small children.

Now that you know the important radio channels, you may be wondering, “how on earth do I use this thing?!” The basics -- be sure to adjust the "Squelch" control as low as possible so that you don’t hear static or ‘white noise’. In order to make a call, hold the button on the microphone down, speak, and then release to hear the other boat or location’s reply.

Believe it or not, there IS a proper way of calling another vessel or on shore location.

1. First of all, make sure you are making your first contact on either channel 16 or channel 9. You’ll also want to listen in for a couple of minutes to make sure the channel is not tied up with another conversation.
2. Say the name of the vessel or location that you’re calling three times. Ex: Thunder Marine, Thunder Marine, Thunder Marine.
3. The words "THIS IS", spoken once, and then the name of your vessel, also spoken once. Ex: THIS IS the motor vessel (insert name of vessel)
4. Say the word "OVER", and then await the station being called to reply.
5. The station will reply in the same manner that you called them. You should then designate a new channel to switch over to and continue the conversation. Once establish, speak the word "OVER". Ex: Please switch and listen to channel 68, OVER
6. Wait for the station to confirm the channel. They will then say “OVER” and you’ll both need to switch over to the new channel and continue your conversation by first contacting them in the same way as you initially did, but this time, on your designated channel.

Always move your conversations to a different channel in a non-emergency situation. If you are using channel 16, no one else can use it until you are off of that channel, which means any emergencies that need to be called in will have to wait.

In a distress and emergency situation, your call will be very similar to a non-emergency call, but much more complex. However, if the only thing you have time to say is MAYDAY, the name of your vessel, and what type of distress you’re in, that is fine as well. The key is that you give enough information so that the Coast Guard knows how to best respond to your call. You’ll need to stay by the radio and repeat this call periodically until you receive a response. You should also stay close to your radio incase more information is needed once someone replies to your call.

• First, make sure you’re on channel 16.
• Say “MAY DAY”, spoken three times
• Speak the words “THIS IS”, once
• Proceed to say your vessel name (spoken three times) 
• Give the position of your vessel by latitude and longitude or by bearing (true or magnetic) and the distance to a well known landmark which will help a responding station located your vessel. Be sure to include all vessel movement such as course, speed and destination.
• Speak what the nature of your distress is (sinking, fire, etc.), and the kind of help you require.
• Speak the number of people on board.
• Give any other information which might help in the rescue, such as length or tonnage of vessel, the type of vessel, the number of people onboard needing medical attention, color of the vessel, etc.
• The word “OVER”, spoken once. 

If you are potentially in distress but are currently not yet in distress, then you can say “Pan-Pan” (pronounced “Pahn”) instead of “Mayday”. This should be used when referring to a controllable leak in your boat or something that is most likely fixable, but you may want to alert someone in case you do eventually need help or incase your situation goes bad.

If you hear a distress call in your area, you are required to respond to it. If you hear a distress call that is not in your vicinity, but that you could potentially get to, then wait several minutes to see if there are other boaters in the area that respond (if there are even any boaters in that area). If they do not respond, you are required to respond.

In summary:

• Always make sure you keep your conversations short and to the point when using a channel. Keep in mind that you may not be the only person who needs to use that particular channel.
• In non-emergency situations, make sure you switch over to a working channel (as listed above) once you make initial contact on channel 9 or 16. 
• Remember that ALL radio conversations are public and anyone on that channel can hear your conversation, including young children. Radios are not to be used for ‘chit-chat’.
• Always speak slowly and clearly so that the responding station can understand you.
• The more information you can provide when speaking with another vessel or the coast guard, the better.
• When speaking to a vessel nearby, switch your radio to low power. When speaking to a vessel further away, you may use high power.
• Always have your radio turned on and turned up. You never know when you or someone else may need information or help.

Have you even used your VHF Marine Radio? Let us know in the comments below.

Fishing is Fun - For the Whole Family

Fishing has been a favorite sport for many generations. You could say that fishing has been one of the very first activities that a father and his child have enjoyed together – and what better bonding time than in the outdoors fishing? Fishing can be fun and beneficial for both children and adults, and has created a lifetime of traditions and memories. Not to mention all of the other benefits it holds!

There are many different types of fishing, but fishing in general is good for your health. While you may look like a bump on a log at certain points throughout your fishing day, you’re gaining a great amount of Vitamin D from the sun, which is a major vitamin deficiency in most people’s daily nutritional intake since our main source of Vitamin D only comes from UV rays. Be sure to wear sun block though. Vitamin D isn’t necessarily a good thing when your skin is burnt!  Another health benefit is the simple active nature of fishing. It takes a lot of muscle groups in your body to reel a fish in. From your forearms to your thighs, you may be working more muscles than you realized. While fishing may not help you lose a noticeable amount of weight, it can help you tone your muscles. This is also a good way to get your family active while having fun!

I often remember my grandfather coming home in the evenings from doing a little fishing. When he’d get home, well after dark, we were always intrigued to hear about ‘the one that got away’ or the ones that didn’t. But quite differently, as children, we misunderstood his still happy face when coming home after catching absolutely nothing. What’s the point of fishing if you don’t catch anything? As an adult, I can now fully understand. Fishing isn’t always about catching fish. Being on a boat with a line in the water is one of the most rewarding activities. It’s unexplainable, but fishing is relaxing. Maybe it’s the silence. Maybe it’s feeling the water swaying back and forth under your feet with the expectation that at any moment, that pole might bend. Maybe it’s being one with nature, or maybe it’s because, in most cases, fishing requires little thinking and allows your mind to wander. Either way, it’s worth the relaxation, even if you don’t catch the ‘big one’.

Fresh clean fish are tasty, that’s a given. Fishing is often used to put food on family’s tables, especially during the spring and summer months. Providing fish for your family is a great benefit to fishing. While most anglers enjoy catching and releasing fish, many people still enjoy what the sport was originally created for …food! You’ll of course need to check with your state to see if there are any special requirements on length and types of fish that you can keep. You’ll need to make sure your fishing license is up to date as well, whether you plan on keeping a fish or not.

Whether walking in the river, standing on the shoreline, or sitting in a boat, fishing is fun for the entire family – even mom! Introducing your children to nature at an early age not only improves sensory skills and lures them away from the television, but it also offers a fun learning experience about water, safety, and teaching them patience and independence. Growing a strong bond with your family is also another benefit. Families that enjoy the simple activities in life together, including fishing, are more relaxed, bonded, and overall, happier. Take this time of doing something you already love doing to bond with your family and enjoy teaching them about leadership skills, nature, fishing, and life. Involve every member of your family. Every family member, old or young, will learn more when they sense the feeling of being involved and having their family involved. You are showing true leadership skills when you take the time to first apply these skills to your family, patiently. Fishing is an amazing leadership and independence builder. These simple skills will help your child feel more confident and able in everyday life at school or with their friends.  Your family will feel comfortable in having conversations with one another, especially when there is a common bond. When you and your family can completely enjoy something together, a lifetime bond begins to form.

There’s nothing like watching the face of your child when they catch their first fish – or their second, or their eighth! Make sure you have all of the necessary “kid friendly” fishing tools before you set off on your fishing adventure. Things such as bobbers, a small child size fishing pole, and live bait can enhance the experience for everyone. A word of advice, keep your camera handy. You’re guaranteed to catch more than just fun slimy fish during the day! Laughing – just one more key benefit to fishing with your family.

So now that we know that fishing is relaxing, good for your health, and a great bonding experience – you may be wondering “where does the ‘fun’ for the kids come in?” There are so many great tools on the web for you to enhance your child’s fishing experience, but nothing is better than actually getting out there and getting their little beginner angler hands dirty. Before you go fishing, let your child pick out a fishing pole that’s just their size. Whether it’s a Disney fishing pole or simply satin black, it’s always fun when you have something of your own that you got to pick out all by yourself. Next – the bait. Live bait is always fun when fishing with your family. But if it’s not accessible, that’s fine too. Have your children search for worms and critters under rocks and in the yard or along the river bank.  Give them mason jars or other types of clear containers so that they can see what they’ve collected. If you have more than one child, turn it into a game! See who can collect the most bait.

When you’re fishing with the entire family, make a day of it! Don’t just narrow your day to fishing. Take a cooler full of food and drinks, maybe even a blanket to sit on when you’re on shore. Go exploring on shore or on a beach, play some games, go swimming. There are so many things you can do to make the most of your time with the ones you love.

The most important part to making fishing fun for your family is to sit back, relax, and don’t force it. If you find that your family is getting bored (especially if the fish aren’t biting), let them take a break. Let them go swimming or set the poles down and let them enjoy a snack, read a book, or play a game while waiting. The fish will always be there, but quality time with their parent(s) won’t be. Take this time to talk to them about their week, toys, school, events, or for the older kids….what they want to do with their lives. You see, fishing is more than just throwing a hook and line into the water; it’s about involving and showing your family that you’re taking the time to be with them. It’s about showing them that you care, and that no matter what, you’re always there. It’s about generations of families following traditions and making new memories. And if you catch fish, that’s pretty cool too.

Navigation Rules: What you need to know

Driving a boat is just like driving a car, right? I mean, you stop when you’re supposed to stop, go when you’re supposed to go….all while imagining stop signs and green lights, right? Think again. Boating navigation is completely different than on road vehicle navigation. And no, I’m not talking about an English woman telling you what next left you need to take on your GPS.

If you haven’t already purchased a book approved by the U.S. Coast Guard on boat navigation, then it may be wise to invest in one and leave it on your boat. However, you can also find these same rules online at the U.S. Coast Guard’s website, here. Boating navigation classes should also be considered for new and experienced boaters, if you have not already taken one. Studies have shown that 80% of boaters who are involved in a boat collision have never taken a boat safety course. While it can’t guarantee that you’ll never be in a bad situation, it can guarantee that you’ll know the rules to navigating a boat. Boat navigation is much more complex than just allowing a boat to pass you or just keeping a steady speed. It’s best to know the actual ‘Rules of the Road’ before setting sail in that nice shiny vessel. A collision can happen in an instant – be safe and know the rules!

First, let’s talk about vessel priorities. There are so many different types of boats on the water, so this is a very important rule to know by heart! In general, the priority of vessels on the water is as follows. The highest priority goes to vessels that are not in direct control or have limited ability to maneuver. Barges come to mind. The second priority goes to working boats because well, this is silly, because they are working. Boats involved in fishing are third priority, and last but not least, sailboats and powerboats. Yes, sailboats are considered powerboats whether their sails are up or not. More on that later.

Right of way is a biggie when it comes to navigation. You’ll eventually find yourself in a situation where everything you’ve learned about boat right of ways becomes completely garbled. That’s why it is good to know and be comfortable in knowing the navigation rules of the water. There will always be situations that will require you to determine who has the right of way, you or the other boat(s). The good thing is, that neither one of you have the right away if you are simply approaching one another head on. You can pass one another on either side, but you should always try to pass port to port.

Which side is port? Left. Remember, both port and left are four letter words.

Boat right of way simplicity changes when boats begin approaching each other at an angle, you’ll find yourself in a more complex situation. When approaching boats on an angle, the boat on the other vessel’s starboard usually has the right of way. But that’s not all. You’ll need to remember which vessels have top priority or, if it is a larger vessel that won’t allow easy maneuverability or cannot slow its speed quickly, you’ll need to allow them to go first. Another complex example (though a bit easier to remember): if you are in a powerboat and you find yourself near a sailboat under sail power alone, the sailboat has the right of way. In all situations, if someone isn’t paying attention…do whatever you need to do to avoid a collision.

Navigation light and sound signals are another must have. While navigation lights and horns/whistles are not required on all types of vessels, it is still something to consider. Horns and whistles come in quite handy when in foggy situations, down pours, or other low visibility times. Sound and light signals allow you to communicate with other boaters on your intentions or to warn other boaters of potential danger. Again, with all navigation rules, you should know when to properly use them. They are not to be used at all times or for the wrong reasons. Personal Water crafts are the only vessels that don’t require navigation lights. All other vessels must have some type of light on them.  Be sure to check with your local and state government to see exactly what types of navigation signals (lights and sounds) are required of your vessel. And don't worry, we check all of our boats, new and used, to make sure you have all the proper lights and they're in good working condition.

Purchasing navigational charts of the specific waterways that you travel is another good safety precaution when it comes to navigation. Make sure you store them in a safe and dry area on your boat. Laminating them or keeping them in plastic bags is a good way to ensure that they don’t get wet. Knowing the waterways is one of the greatest things you can do to help yourself while boating. Memorizing landmarks, shallow areas, dangerous submerged objects, and safe channel markers are not required, but are a wise thing to do. Also, knowing where local marinas, channels, ports and other navigable waterways are can be extremely helpful should you find yourself in a dire situation or lost in a particular area.

Remember, channel 16 is the universal emergency channel for your VHF marine radio.

Speaking of getting lost, carrying a compass, GPS, or your handy dandy waterway chart (has mentioned above) will allow you to feel more comfortable should you find yourself off course. Navigation doesn’t just mean knowing how to properly steer a vessel or knowing who has the right of way – navigation also means knowing where you are at all times, and if you find yourself in a situation where you’re lost, you’ll have the ability to maneuver your way back to a safe haven.

The few rules mentioned above are simply scratching the surface of navigational rules when it comes to boating. I urge every single boater to take a navigation safety course or to at least study the navigation rules to boating before getting onto (or back onto) the water. Do yourself a favor and know the rules. And when you think you really know them, study again! As with driving a car, you know the rules and can naturally react in a situation. You should have the same mindset and ability when navigating your boat – it just comes naturally.

The Benefits of Boating

Its common knowledge that being on the water in a boat, whether a small fishing boat or a luxurious yacht, can be one of the most relaxing things you’ll ever experience. However, there are so many more benefits to boating that you may not know about.

In 2007, Discover Boating and Russell Research conducted a survey that polled more than 1,000 boaters and non-boaters. The results were outstanding and proved that the benefits of boating are worth considering owning a boat, if you don’t already. One of the things that the study showed is that because boating stimulates relaxation in most boaters, this also acts as a stress reliever in and out of the water. This causes the boater to respond to stress or stressful situations better in the non-boating world than those who do not own a boat. The study also showed that it wasn’t just the boaters who benefitted from boating, but also their spouses, children, and those that interact with them while boating.

Believe it or not, boating is a perfect low impact exercise routine, all while having fun and easing those cares away. Granted, you can do other higher impact activities while boating, such as wakeboarding, tubing, and fishing.  But boating itself has proven to help many people stay fit and in shape (or even lose a few pounds) without much effort at all. And of course, staying fit while doing something we enjoy always makes us happy!  Boaters express greater satisfaction than non-boaters in their overall physical health, mentality, and lifestyle.

With the fast paced lives we live, it’s often hard to bond with your family. Boating does just that. In the 2007 study, boating proved to build lasting relationships with families and spouses. Children learn leadership skills from seeing their parent(s) take control of the boat, charting new routes, and teaching them the roll of captain. This allows not only your children, but yourself, to show better leadership skills at school, work, and in the real world. Being on your boat will give you quality time with your family, away from the hustle and bustle of work, school, sports, and the other weekly activities that consume your lives.

Tax breaks. That’s right, tax breaks are another major benefit to boating. If you haven’t been taking advantage of the tax breaks that are available for some boaters, you’ll definitely want to book mark this article for specific details.  Many boaters don’t realize that their boats can be deducted from their taxes as a second home, as long as you aren’t already deducting a second mortgage and your boat is livable. Do you entertain clients or potential clients on your boat? This can also be a deduction for your business under the entertainment expense category. And when it comes time to upgrade or purchase a new boat, instead of selling or trading it in, there are amazing tax breaks for people who donate their boats to charity. In most cases, you will receive more in tax deductions for your donated boat than you would by trading it in or selling it.

Most people still have the conception that boating wouldn’t fit into their budget, but that’s just not true. In today’s world, there are so many boating options for you – whether you’re single or have a family; whether you’re a millionaire or a middle class laborer – there’s something for everyone’s budget and style. The benefits to boating also include the options that boaters now have when making their investment and owning a boat has never been easier. Contact our sales team for details. Everyone can enjoy stress free lives, relaxation, quality time with their spouse or family, and overall satisfaction when boating – not just the rich and famous.

Giving Thanks, St. Pete Boat Show & Holiday Gift Certificates

It's that time of year again. The time of year for friends and family to get together and to give thanks for all of the wonderful blessings we have. It's the time of year for us to refocus on the things that really matter - like spending the day on your boat and making memories that last a lifetime.

It's also the time of year for the St. Pete Boat Show. It starts on Thursday, December 4th and runs through Sunday the 7th.
We are very excited to offer the first ever Factory backed "Boater's Stimulus Package". That's right, a stimulus package that pays you direct. Our manufacturers are stepping up and helping you, "Joe the Boater", purchase a new boat by offering you direct financial aid.
Are you looking to purchase a new boat? Use the Stimulus cashas an additional discount over and above the already reduced Boat Show sale price.
Do you owe more on your boat than it's worth? Use the Stimulus cash to help reduce your negative equity. Then you can trade it in on that new boat you've been wanting.
This one time "Boater's Stimulus Package" begins Friday November 28th and runs through December 7th. Do not hesitate. If you have been waiting for the perfect time to buy, it is NOW.
Please contact us to set an appointment to see the boat of your choice and take advantage of this rare opportunity.

Can't decide on that perfect gift for that special someone? How about a gift certificate from Thunder Marine Parts and Accessories? Choose from hats, shirts, dock lines, fenders, cup holders and much much more. Click on the link below for more information on our gift certificate special and avoid the crowded malls.
http://www.thundermarine.com/specials_service.asp?indid=1&disid=179950&

Everyone here at Thunder Marine would like to thank our thousands of customers for their loyalty and friendship and wish them and their family the very happiest of Holidays.

Fall Happy Hour @ Thunder Marine

Want to get away?

With all the negative news in the media, woudn't you like to have a day or two where you didn't have to hear about the market or political campaigns? Well, picture this - a beautiful sunset, temperatures in the low to mid 70's, the gentle sound of waves crashing and the crisp smell of the salty autumn air. Where is this you ask? Anywhere Tampa Bay. You can find it in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Clearwater, Sarasota, Bradenton - you name it.

We are so blessed with the area we live in because there are so many places to go to get away on a boat. Sure, you can take long trips to places you haven't been but the joy of boating is just getting away. Many times that can just mean an overnight stay at the marina where you keep your boat or anchoring up for the weekend at a favorite local island. Shoot, even the Intercoastal Waterway has plenty of spots outside the channel that you can anchor at and feel secluded. It's just like when you were a kid and you pitched a tent in your backyard. You weren't that far from home, but at least you were away!

These short vacations or "staycations" as they are sometimes called can be rather inexpensive no matter the company.
-If it's just you and the better half, it can be a romantic way to spend some "alone time". Pack a lite dinner, some wine and your favorite music. A Gulf sunset and a quiet night away can do wonders for a relationship.
-If you've been spending to much time at work and you are starting to forget what your spouse and kids look like, a weekend away with the family on the boat can make you a hero. Pull out a couple of those dusty board games you have, make some sandwiches and you've got a start to your weekend. Find an island that you're familiar with and the kids will be able to run off some energy. Bring a small grill and you'll not only be able to cook up some hamburgers & hot dogs, but you'll be able to make smores later on!
-If the day to day grind is starting to get to you and you are ready to blow off some steam, invite some of your friends to join you for a docktail party or raft-up. Grab your favorite livation, some good Jimmy Buffet tunes and start changing your latitude and attitude.

So if any of these fits your current state of mind, let your boat be the escape you intended it to be. And if you don't currently have a boat or are in the market for another one, Four Winns should be on your list. The Four Winns Vista cruisers are the perfect boats for these "staycations". From 25 feet to 50 feet, Four Winns has models to fit everyones needs. Enjoy all the comforts of home in the serenity of your tropical cove. If you'd like to look at the beautiful Four Winns line-up, just click on the link below:

http://www.thundermarine.com/brochure_search.asp?bsCID=1027&bsYear=2008&bsProdCat=807978&indid=1&

And if for some reason you still have to have contact with civilization, most cell phones and wireless cards work in the surrounding waterways - just don't let anyone else know because you might spoil their fun & relaxation!