Marine VHF Radios and Accessories from Fisheries Supply
This page helps boaters choose reliable marine VHF radios and accessories for clear onboard and ship-to-shore communication.
At A Glance
- Choose between handheld or fixed-mount VHF based on boat and range.
- Look for DSC, GPS, waterproofing, and clear displays for safety.
- Match radios with quality VHF antennas, mounts, and wiring components.
- Plan for accessories like microphones, headsets, speakers, and battery packs.
- Leverage Fisheries Supply’s inventory, pro accounts, and broad shipping options.
Fisheries Supply offers a wide in-stock selection of marine radios, including both handheld VHF radios and fixed-mount VHF marine radios. You can choose from trusted brands such as Icom, Standard Horizon, and Garmin, along with many related accessories to complete your installation.
Enhancing Communication with Marine VHF Radios
A dedicated marine VHF radio is a core safety and communication tool on the water. It allows quick contact with nearby boats, marinas, and, where applicable, authorities such as the U.S. Coast Guard, and is generally more reliable than mobile phones in typical boating areas.
Fisheries Supply supports a wide range of use cases, from small fishing skiffs and cruising sailboats to commercial workboats, by offering:
- Handheld VHF radio options for portability and backup.
- Fixed-mount radios for primary onboard communication.
- Hailers and wireless microphones for loud, clear deck communication.
- VHF headsets, microphones, and external speakers for noisy boats.
Types of Marine VHF Radios
Handheld VHF Radios
Handheld VHF radios are compact, battery-powered units that you can carry on deck, into the dinghy, or keep as an emergency backup at the navigation station. They are especially useful on smaller boats, open runabouts, and tenders where mounting a full-size radio is difficult.
Many modern handhelds float, include bright displays, and may integrate built-in GPS and Digital Selective Calling (DSC), giving you key safety features in a portable package.
Fisheries Supply offers fixed-mount radios suitable for center consoles, cruising sailboats, trawlers, commercial fishing boats, and more—so you can match power, interface options, and form factor to the way you operate your boat.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Marine VHF Radio
When comparing models, pay close attention to features that affect safety, readability, and day-to-day usability on board.
Many DSC radios either include internal GPS or can connect to an external GPS via standard marine networking protocols, making it easier to keep position information accurate and current.
Installation, Grounding, and Accessories
For boaters requiring a more permanent installation, Fisheries Supply provides fixed-mount VHF radios along with brackets, copper grounding straps, mounting hardware, and wiring accessories to create a secure, reliable communication system.
Shop our extensive selection of VHF antennas and mounts to maximize signal strength and reliability for your installation.
- Add external speakers for louder audio in open cockpits.
- Use wired or wireless microphones for helm or flybridge control.
- Install hailers for loud foredeck and dockside communication.
- Fit headsets where hearing protection or hands-free use is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a handheld and a fixed-mount VHF radio?
Handheld VHF radios are portable and battery-powered, ideal for small boats or as backups. Fixed-mount VHF radios offer higher transmission power, better range, and require a dedicated power source.
Do I need a license to use a VHF marine radio?
In the U.S., recreational boaters do not need a license to operate a VHF marine radio. However, commercial boats and international travelers may require one.
What is DSC (Digital Selective Calling) on a VHF radio?
DSC allows boaters to send automated distress signals with their location to other DSC-enabled radios and the U.S. Coast Guard, enhancing safety.
How far can a VHF radio transmit?
Transmission range depends on antenna height and power output. Handheld VHF radios typically reach 3-5 miles, while fixed-mount radios with an external antenna can reach 20+ miles.
What accessories do I need for my VHF radio?
Common accessories include external speakers, microphones, VHF antennas, mounting brackets, and battery packs for handheld radios.