Handheld VHF radioes any good?

[Northman]

I need a VHF radio only once a year on a large lake we fish. Would the 5 watt handheld radio be OK for NOAA weather reports? There is not much price difference between the stationary mount with antenna and the handheld but I don't really want to fish around an antenna and radio all the time. Any input would be appreciated.
Northman
Montana

[MK]

My handheld, Raytheon 101, is fine for weather about anywhere. The small antenna will limit you on transmit to about 1/2 the distance of a full size (8') antenna, from my experience. I have an adapter to connect the handheld to the full length antenna and it seems to almost double my range. But remember, the fixed mount radios run about 25 watts and will greatly increase your transmit range, if this is a concern.

As far as just weather radio, I use it at my home on occasion for the weather. I don't think I've ever been out of range.

[Miami Vice]

Any Standard brand portable VHF will be good for you.
You might want to pay a little more and get a water proof model.
Miami Vice

[WestCoaster]

We use them here in the Pacific Ocean with a crystal clear transmission range of 8 miles and static borne chatter up to about 13 miles. WX radio broadcasts come in loud and clear. I have a Uniden Digital unit and it seems to work great.