VHF antenna mount

[mgerardi]

I am picking up my 170CC in a couple of weeks. I am trying to figure out where to put a VHF antenna mount (and how to get the wire to the center console). I initially considered a rail clamp mount on the console itself, but that would put the antenna too close to the radio (and operator).

[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.

[Genelie]

In my 210 I mount all my eletronics in side my compartment on the center counsil...I want to keep them out of the weather. As for ANT my is a rachet mount to the flat spot on the top of the t-top. I ran the wire over the top then back underneath to the first support. Then through a whole in the support, down to the bottom, and out through another hole, directly to a hole near the bottom of the center counsil then up through the center counsil, and into my storage compartment. All the wholes have rubber gromets to keep out water. Nice and tidy...I may in the future drill a hole on the top of the t-top, to bring the wire directly to the support mount...gives it even more of a pro job look.
__________________
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[mgerardi]

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.

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

[Mainer]

Hi Michael,

I'm a fellow 17' CC owner. I live in Freeport. Based on my past results with my old boat I use a hand held. Never had a problem. Hope we get a nice weekend soon so I can get the boat wet for the first time.

[mgerardi]

Thanks for the reply. I have seen your "Mainer" name in the forum, figured it was from Maine. Thanks for the advice. I am going with the handheld. It's not like I plan being 25 miles out to sea very often anyway. The antenna install is not easy on a boat of this size. I pick up my 170CC in a couple of weeks at BFC Bath. Maybe I will catch you out on the water sometime. Regards, Michael in Brunswick