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Top 11 Best VHF Radios For Offshore Fishing in 2025

When leaving the shore, you want your boat to be equipped with the best VHF radio for offshore fishing. The radio makes it possible to connect to the coast guard, get information, or communicate with other boats.

Offshore fishing will often see anglers on water that can run 100 feet deep and more than 15 miles from the shore. In scenarios like these, it is sensible to have reliable communication equipment to connect with the Coast Guard or other boats in the area.

Marine radios run on VHF (Very High Frequency) and don’t need a license to operate for recreational use. The law requires every boat over 65 feet to have a VHF marine radio. However, it makes sense for every boat to have a VHF radio onboard.

Let’s take a look at the best options to buy before you head out to the waters next.

Top 5 Best VHF Radios For Offshore Fishing

1. Standard Horizon GX6000 – Editor’s Choice
2. Standard Horizon VHF GX2400B – Runner Up
3. Icom IC-M605 – Best Premium VHF Radio For Offshore Fishing
4. Uniden UM385 – Best Budget VHF Radio For Offshore Fishing
5. Raymarine E70493 (Ray 91)
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How We Picked The Best VHF Marine Radios

To pick the best VHF radios you want to take along for offshore fishing, we analyzed how they fare on necessary features, accessories, and general convenience for the marine environment.

Fixed mount VHF radios take preference over handheld VHF radios for offshore fishing. Considering the distance from the shore, a fixed mount radio is the better choice here. Handheld radios too have a purpose, but more as a means of quick communication between vessels, rather than with the shore.

Voice clarity is the backbone of any radio. VHF marine radios must exhibit excellent voice clarity to make it to this list. We prefer a proven track record of quality and the ability to sustain the initial clarity for the duration of a conversation. VHF radios with active noise cancellation gained preference for our list.

Moving on, even the most carefully handhled VHF marine radio can’t escape contact with water forever. So waterproofing is a fundamentally important aspect. The list gives preference to VHF radios with a protection rating of IPX7 or higher. This way, we can be sure the radios survive contact with water.

Speaking of surviving water, handheld units that can float deserve more love. A marine radio may survive submersion but it may not be possible or convenient to retrieve one that sinks. 

Another method we used for evaluating these radios is their ability to connect and work with additional accessories and functions. Handhelds with simple additions like a belt clip and wrist strap get more attention. NMEA interfacing, AIS, GPS, channel scanning, and DSC get a special mention for all VHF marine radios.

Safety features are a big part of the assessment. The law requires all fixed-mount radios to have a dedicated button for DSC (digital selective calling). Handheld VHF marine radios that include this feature are clearly reaching out for better features. Besides, the inclusion of better safety features is always advisable.

Features and accessories have their place but at the end of the day, the value for money makes or breaks a product. We analyzed whether a VHF marine radio and its features are worth the price tag.

Some features that got additional weightage are ease of use, easy setup, screen size and clarity, appearance and design, device weight, and dimensions. For fixed-mount radios, the ease of installation played a role too.

Check this: Best Garmin Fish Finders

Best VHF Radio For Offshore Fishing Reviews And Options

1. Standard Horizon GX6000 – Editor’s Choice

Standard Horizon GX6000 is a well-made and feature rich marine VHF radio that comes in at a decent price point. Since it sits right on value and features, it is our top choice for this category.

It is presented as a commercial model and is designed to be robust and long lasting. It has something of a bigger footprint in width and height than similar radios (including other Standard Horizon marine radios), but doesn’t go very deep. It comes with a bracket mount that makes it easy to install, though if you prefer a flush mount, the kit has to be purchased separately.

The radio features a large display that measures 5-inch diagonally and shows a fair amount of information including the channel, GPS location, and more. The speaker is placed on one side of the radio, while the other side and bottom get controls and buttons.

Its speaker is fairly good and loud, though if you prefer, there is room to add an external speaker. Additionally, there’s a 25W output that can connect to a PA system or loud hailer.

The maximum RF output here is 25W, which is sufficient to get a good range and clarity. The transmitter and receiver are great at their job and make sure the audio is crystal clear and without any troubling noise or interference.

Interestingly, it has an integrated AIS receiver, offers DSC calling, has several other GPS-related features, but it lacks a built-in GPS! In a sense, it would be more fitting to say that the radio is GPS-capable.

So, to use GPS or GPS-dependent features, you’ll either have to use a separate GPS antenna, or use the NMEA 2000 port and connect it with another GPS capable device. A chartplotter could be a good choice here because the larger display works much better for using AIS or even for DSC. If you choose to go the route of the GPS antenna, remember that the radio also needs a dedicated AIS antenna, so you’d have two extra antennas.

While all this appears to be a hassle, it works rather well for the commercial intent that forms the heart of this marine radio.

Apparently, Standard Horizon was (or is) preparing for integrated systems or instruments like transponders or fish finders, but these have not been launched. The desire is understandable, as the marine device ecosystem works quite well for companies like Garmin and Raymarine.

Those who want a simpler setup but similar features can consider the Standard Horizon GX2400 marine VHF radio. It’s a bit smaller than the GX6000, but offers features like built-in GPS and doesn’t require separate antennas. However, the marine band receiver and transmitter on the GX6000 are more refined and robust.

Other notable features include the support for wireless microphones though this requires a separate kit, voice scramblers for added privacy, and a built-in recorder that captures the last two minutes of received transmission so you don’t miss anything.

Overall, Standard Horizon GX6000 is a powerful and feature-rich marine radio that’s suitable for most users, but will likely work best with more serious operations that have multiple devices that can integrate with the VHF radio.

To sum up, what we like is the…

• Large screen and good build quality
• Support for wireless microphones
• Records last 2 minutes of received transmission
• Has GPS, DSC, and AIS
• High quality transmitter and receiver.

On the downside…

• Doesn’t have built-in GPS receiver
• Needs separate antenna for AIS.

2. Standard Horizon VHF GX2400B – Runner Up

Type: Fixed-mount VHF radio | Waterproof: Yes, IPX8 | GPS: Built-in | Backlights: Display and keypad | Monitoring: Dual/triple watch function | Information: NOAA channels and alerts | Battery backup: – | Dimensions: 7.1W×3.1H×6D inches | Transmission Power: 1W up to Max 25W | Warranty: 3 years

Standard Horizon has an impressive offering in the form of the GX2400. Its well-placed features and price tag make it our editor’s choice as the best VHF radio for offshore fishing. This one’s geared towards the recreational fishing segment and has just the right mix of features to be useful without going overboard on the pricing.

It’s a compact fixed-mount unit and takes very little space. Yet, it sports a fairly large display with plenty of room for information. Large buttons flank the display and provide easy operation. The appearance is similar to other comparable models from the brand, including the GX2200 and GX2000.

On that note, I should point out that Standard Horizon GX2400 replaces the GX2200, which though an otherwise excellent unit, had some problems. Many GX2200 users complained about the trouble with managing alarms on the VHF radio. 

That problem has been fixed on the GX2400. It also gets the option to go wireless with a second station and RAM4 units. The radio has room for wired connectors for this purpose. However, going wireless will require an additional purchase of the SCU-30 WiFi Module.

Whether you use a second station or the standalone unit, the voice quality remains impressive. The fixed VHF radio uses active noise cancellation technology to reduce background noises like engine noise and the sea. Even if the person transmitting doesn’t have the best unit (or it’s noisy there), you’ll be able to get fairly good audio.

But modern marine radios do more than just transmit and receive audio. We need it to work with other gadgets on board as well! Playing with other equipment on-board comes easy for the Standard Horizon GX 2400 since it is NMEA 2000 and 0183 compatible. Being compatible with both standards gives it a wider range and use. 

The compatibility comes in handy in practical settings too. Hook up this marine radio with a chartplotter and its AIS function (receive only) can display information on the larger screen. The AIS and Automatic MMSI Number Input features make the waters safer. If another boat gets uncomfortably close, the user can quickly contact them through the automatic MMSI input. 

To keep communication convenient, the GX2400 transmits at a 1W power. If you need more, shift to 25W power for a longer range. The antenna will play a key role here and you need one that works with both VHF and AIS. 

Other features include a 30W loud hailer with preprogrammed fog signals. Even with the hailer in use, the marine radio will continue to listen to one channel of your choice.

It can listen to NOAA weather channels and weather alerts. Also it is rated IPX8 waterproof, so it’s fairly well protected against the elements.  

On top of that it has a built-in GPS and in case the radio is mounted below deck or needs a more accurate signal, it can connect to an antenna.

Verdict

Standard Horizon GX2400 is a feature-rich and well-priced VHF marine radio. It checks most requirements for offshore fishing, but its setup will require a learning curve. This may not be the first choice for beginners.

Ratings

• Transmit power: 9/10
• Value for Money: 9/10
• Functionality: 9/10
• Waterproofing: 10/10
• Overall: 9.25/10

3. Icom IC-M605 – Best Premium VHF Radio For Offshore Fishing

The Icom IC-M605 VHF radio is a beast of a unit that’s built for serious offshore fishing. If you’re out chasing tuna or marlin miles from shore, you need a radio that’s reliable, packed with features, and easy to use. The M605 is a premium option, but is it worth the hefty price tag? Let’s break it down and see how it stacks up against other high-end VHF radios in its price range, like the Icom IC-M506GE or Raymarine RAY53.

First off, the M605’s 4.3-inch color display is a game-changer. It’s bright, clear, and has a near-180-degree viewing angle, so you can see it from almost anywhere in the cockpit. Whether it’s blazing sun or pitch-black night, the night mode keeps everything readable without ruining your night vision. No squinting or fumbling here—this screen is top-notch. Compare that to the Icom IC-M506GE, which has a solid dot-matrix display but lacks the vibrant color and size of the M605. The Raymarine RAY53? It’s got a smaller, less flashy screen, which can feel like a step down for the price.

What really sets the M605 apart is its flexibility. You can hook up to three remote stations—think command mics or a full display unit—so you’ve got control from the helm, flybridge, or even the cabin. That’s huge for big boats where you’re not always at the main radio. The intuitive controls, like the big 10-key pad and soft-touch buttons, make it dead simple to punch in channels or MMSI numbers, even when the boat’s bouncing through chop. The M506GE offers similar remote mic options but maxes out at two stations, and the RAY53 doesn’t match this level of expandability.

Now, the integrated AIS receiver is a massive win for offshore safety. You can track nearby vessels right on the M605’s display, see their bearing, and even make direct DSC calls to avoid collisions. It’ll sound an alarm if someone’s getting too close, which is clutch when you’re focused on fishing. Pair it with your chartplotter via NMEA 2000 or 0183, and you’ve got AIS data on your main nav screen. The M506GE has AIS too, but its smaller display makes the data less accessible. The RAY53 needs a compatible chartplotter to shine, which adds cost.

The M605 isn’t perfect, though. It’s pricey—probably the most expensive fixed-mount VHF out there. If you’re on a budget, the M506GE gives you a lot of the same tech for less cash. It’s also not the smallest unit, so if your helm’s tight on space, the compact RAY53 might fit better. Still, the M605’s build is rock-solid with IPX8 waterproofing, a 30-watt hailer, and a foghorn, plus last-call recording to save the last two minutes of incoming audio. That’s handy if you miss a call in the chaos of a fish on the line.

So, why is the M605 the best premium VHF for offshore fishing? It’s the total package: a killer display, unmatched flexibility, and AIS integration that keeps you safe. While it’s spendy and a bit bulky, the features justify the cost for serious anglers who demand the best.

To sum up what I like is the…

• Stunning 4.3-inch color display with night mode
• Supports up to three remote stations for ultimate flexibility
• Integrated AIS receiver with collision alarms and DSC calling
• IPX8 waterproofing and robust 30-watt hailer/foghorn
• Last-call recording saves two minutes of incoming audio

On the downside…

• High price tag compared to alternatives like the IC-M506GE
• Bulky size may not suit smaller helms

4. Uniden UM385 – Best Budget VHF Radio For Offshore Fishing

Type: Fixed-mount VHF radio | Waterproof: IPX4 water-resistant | GPS: Requires external antenna | Backlights: Display and keypad | Monitoring: Triple watch | Information: NOAA channels and alerts | Battery backup: – | Dimensions: 6.4W×2.63H×5.12D (inches) | Transmission: 1W up to Max 25W | Warranty: Three years water protection warranty

If a low-cost, no-frills fixed-mount radio floats your boat, take a look at the Uniden UM385. This radio replaces a very similar model from the company, the Uniden UM380. Not much has changed between the two models, except that the UM385 gets a more contemporary look and has more compact dimensions. 

To be precise, the height and depth have reduced, while the width has increased. So, the new model is more compact, if only ever-so-slightly. None of that is of much importance to this radio. All said and done, the biggest strength of this model is its low cost and the fact that it comes from a decent brand.

The domain of low-cost fixed-mount marine radios is pretty much in the hands of Uniden. The only viable competition to the value proposition for the UM385 would be the Uniden UM 435. Although the low price is an important asset for this VHF marine radio, Uniden UM385 is a fairly decent radio and a good one for offshore fishing.

It is capable of handling all major aspects of functionality and usage. For low transmit power, it starts at 1W, though if you need more juice, the power will go to 25W. Just be sure you’ve got the right antenna.

You’ll also need an external input or GPS receiver. NMEA0183 compatibility makes it possible to connect or interface other devices with this radio. 

Other notable features include NOAA weather scanning and alerts. A flashlight and emergency strobe light are built into the radio to deal with emergencies. 

One troubling aspect of the Uniden UM385 VHF marine radio is the waterproofing or lack thereof. With a rating of IPX4, the device can handle a little splash of water or maybe a drizzle.

Depending on where they’re installed, fixed-mount marine radios may not be at a big risk of getting drenched. Yet, there’s always the risk of humidity, accidents (spillage), and several other factors when the boat is offshore. Better waterproofing is definitely desirable.

Verdict

Uniden UM385 is a decent, low-priced VHF marine radio that can work well with offshore fishing. The low cost also affects available features. The radio will need an external GPS receiver, there’s no AIS, and the waterproofing leaves something to be desired.

Ratings

• Transmit power: 9/10
• Value for Money: 10/10
• Functionality: 8/10