Another VHF antenna question

[Stinkpot]

I'd like to set up a VHF radio in my house which is about 30 feet from the water. The base of the antenna would be approx 20 feet above sea level. Boating traffic passes by about 200 feet from the house.

What size antenna would allow xmit & rec from boats right in front of the house as well as maximize the xmit & rec distance to far away radios? I understand the dB ratings and how that changes the "sphere" of the signal and I don't want to transmit over the nearby boats just to reach those far away.

So what is the best size for this, 8', 11', 21'?

Anyone else do this have any other suggestions? Is a 50' cable from the radio to the antenna going to affect performance?

Thanks!

 

[F/V First Team]

Transmitting is illegal from land unless you're a licensed land based service provider. You know, like the Coast Guard.

Just a heads up.

 

[greg]

Transmitting is illegal from land unless you're a licensed land based service provider. You know, like the Coast Guard.

Just a heads up.

Or a marina, fuel dock, sea tow, etc. But the reason needs to be solid.

 

[hntrss]

I had one at my house (just didnt tell anyone) and was over 5 miles from the water. Just a cheapo shakespere worked really well. That extra height is all you need. Dont go nuts on an expensive antenna.

 

[F/V First Team]

Get one of the 10dB giant ones and use it as a "flag pole"

I hear that works

Just keep it on the DL, and you might want to edit your location information lest the FCC come a calling

 

[Stinkpot]

Transmitting is illegal from land unless you're a licensed land based service provider. You know, like the Coast Guard.

Just a heads up.

Okay, didn't know that. Or I did at one point in my life (back when a license was required) but forgot.

Thanks for the info.