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Originally Posted by fridaysoff
I have a 170CC and pondered on the same problem at first. I don't know where you are located or where you'll be fishing/cruising, but I'm located on the southeast coast of NC. I fish inshore and up to 10 miles offshore on a good day. I finally decided on a handheld VHF. It has a small base mount that I put on the console. I'm satisfied with the range. With my handheld and my cell phone I feel completely safe in the areas that I fish/cruise. I use a bimini top in the hot months. I don't have to worry about the antenna getting in the way. I probably get about the same results as a 3 foot antenna would give. If I did go with a radio and antenna I would get the smallest antenna possible and mount it to the side of the console so the cable would not be in the way. There are some small 36" wire antennas that I looked at that might work. The console is so small and I use the grab rails when walking around it, I can only imagine how many times I would grab the antenna and break it off. Water proof handheld VHF at Boaters World, 99 Bucks. Just my 2 cents!
John D.
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John, Thanks for your response. I am in Brunswick, Maine. I will be using the boat in the coastal waters of Maine and rivers, plus some time in Cape Cod bay. I have come to the same conclusion as you - a handheld, specifically an ICOM since I am partial to that company. I seldom go more than a few miles out (in my old boat). The antenna installation sounds problematic, I too will be using a bimini top (at least when my wife is onboard). Antennas shouldn't be less than 3ft away from the radio anyway. Thanks again, Regards, Michael