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Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 12 Dec 2017, 13:24
by Reeling
Seasherpa wrote:
Reeling wrote:Rather than start a new thread, I thought I'd bump a perfectly old one.

Is this a compulsory exam/qualification for using a VHF radio? I am looking at getting my safety equipment ready for NSC and I came across this thread when searching for VHF reviews.

If it is a compulsory qualification, How do you fair if you just wish to hire/rent a radio for NSC?

Cheers
You are supposed to have a licence to operate a VHF the exception being in an emergency. For the comp, you will be able to get updates on weather etc over vhf and you will have it there should you need it in case of emergency. I'm sure if you asked them the Coast Guard would rather you had a means of communication on the water than not irrespective of licence. The course is good though, I learned heaps on it and would recommend it. If nothing else, you should look up the correct format for making a distress call - imho everyone should learn that.
Thanks for the clarification! It's certainly on my list of buying but when I read about the license I got a bit worried as I doubt I'll have time to apply, can gain certification as I am away from friday through to 8th Jan.

Certainly best to have one on my person in the event of an emergency (without licence), then not have one, I agree.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 12 Dec 2017, 13:38
by mingle
I carry my VHF when I'm heading offshore, or I'm out on my own. I don't have a license, but am fairly well-versed with the etiquette of using a VHF.

Occasionally I use it to check-in with fellow fishos, but the main reason is for an emergency situation.

Mike.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 14 Dec 2017, 06:43
by Hammertime
mingle wrote:I carry my VHF when I'm heading offshore, or I'm out on my own. I don't have a license, but am fairly well-versed with the etiquette of using a VHF.

Occasionally I use it to check-in with fellow fishos, but the main reason is for an emergency situation.
P
Mike.
I've got mine too, haven't used it at I'm unlicensed but I'm aware of mayday, securitee and pan pan, how to call other vessels and emergency channels 16 & 67? So I've got a fair idea. Enough that I could probably fake it, but I'm too scared to use it. Plus I usually fish close to mates so no need

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 14 Dec 2017, 06:56
by Seasherpa
Hammertime wrote: I've got mine too, haven't used it at I'm unlicensed but I'm aware of mayday, securitee and pan pan, how to call other vessels and emergency channels 16 & 67? So I've got a fair idea. Enough that I could probably fake it, but I'm too scared to use it. Plus I usually fish close to mates so no need
That probably sums up the main difference between a bay session and an offshore session - often you won't be close to mates like in the bay in fact with swells there are times where you won't even be able to see your mates which is why we carry vhfs (and safety flags). Its usually a case of launching together, going for bait, radio updates and seeing each other on trolling laps (usually further away as livies do like to tangle each other at every opportunity) throughout the morning rather than fishing side by side.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 14 Dec 2017, 09:32
by laneends
Just got one as an early xmas present. Need to start looking into how to use it and get the license done in the new year, along with everyone else who gets one for chrissie no doubt.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 14 Dec 2017, 09:59
by Reeling
laneends wrote:Just got one as an early xmas present. Need to start looking into how to use it and get the license done in the new year, along with everyone else who gets one for chrissie no doubt.
hoping for whitworth/chsmith sale over x-mas/NY for PLB and/or EPIRB and VHF ;)

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 14 Dec 2017, 10:24
by peatop
I will get these electronics after a fishfinder, think i will look at that EPIRB that can be attached to my PFD/belt

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 19 Dec 2017, 21:48
by Adrian
If you get a VHF with DSC then you need a licence to register a MMSI.

Hitting the Distress button on the VHF will identify you and send your position if the VHF has a GPS or is attached to a GPS.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 12 Jan 2019, 22:32
by Jacko
Adrian wrote:If you get a VHF with DSC then you need a licence to register a MMSI.

Hitting the Distress button on the VHF will identify you and send your position if the VHF has a GPS or is attached to a GPS.
Just completed the AWQ course so I will be applying for MMSI.
I have two hand held radios and two yaks ?
I have been told I only need apply once to get two MMSIs but the form doesn't seem to allow for that.
Also
Anyone know about the group MMSI application process
Should Vyakers going offshore be part of a group with some kind of linked MMSI & DSC.

Edit 20 Jan 19: I filled in two forms (one for each hand held radio to be used on each yak)
A couple of days later AMSA issued me with two individual MMSIs.
The AMSA database has linked the MMSI to the radio serial number and the yak I intend to use each radio on
I programmed each radio with the respective MMSI and they both can now make DSC calls.

Re: VHF radio info for the tuna/kingy chasers

Posted: 13 Jan 2019, 00:31
by 4liters
What’s the go with call signs? Is there some protocol for choosing one or are they just whatever you want?